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NTSB Report
October 16, 2020 · Robinson R44 · N500DL
Pahrump, NV
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
October 16, 2020
Injury Outcomes
2 injuries (2 minor injuries), 1 uninjured
Location
Pahrump, NV
Aircraft
Robinson R44 (2002)
Tail Number
N500DL
Operator
Spring Mountain Raceway
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR21LA021
The pilot reported that, he maneuvered the helicopter to a low and slow hover over a recreational lake. The helicopter was facing into the sun, and the sun’s reflection off the water produced a “significant glare.” The pilot lost his visual orientation with the water and sky, and when he realized that he was too low and saw water on the nose bubble, he attempted to increase collective, to increase altitude but was unable to do so. The pilot turned the helicopter on its side to stop the main rotor blades. The helicopter subsequently collided with the water and sank. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main and tail rotor drive systems. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter which would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain helicopter control while hovering low over a body a water while facing into the sun, which resulted in a loss of visual reference and subsequent impact with the lake surface.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, he maneuvered the helicopter to a low and slow hover over a recreational lake. The helicopter was facing into the sun, and the sun’s reflection off the water produced a “significant glare.” The pilot lost his visual orientation with the water and sky, and when he realized that he was too low and saw water on the nose bubble, he attempted to increase collective, to increase altitude but was unable to do so. The pilot turned the helicopter on its side to stop the main rotor blades. The helicopter subsequently collided with the water and sank. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main and tail rotor drive systems. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter which would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time10:00 PDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson R44
Tail NumberN500DL
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorSpring Mountain Raceway
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-540-F1B5 · Reciprocating · 225
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury Summary2 injuries (2 minor injuries), 1 uninjured
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor2
Uninjured1
Total3
Crew 1Age 73 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind30° @ 15 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point14 F
Altimeter30.25 inHg
Observation Time09:53
Weather SourceWFAC