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March 26, 2021 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N178DF

Dustin, OK

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
March 26, 2021
Injury Outcomes
4 injuries (2 serious injuries, 2 minor injuries)
Location
Dustin, OK
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II (2007)
Tail Number
N178DF
Operator
Brush Popper Aviation
Injuries
Serious
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN21LA173

The pilot of the helicopter stated that, while maneuvering “low and slow” with three passengers onboard, he noticed “insufficient power” and shortly thereafter, the low rotor rpm warning annunciated. He applied full throttle and attempted to regain rotor rpm but was unsuccessful. The pilot stated that he was forced to land immediately, during which the helicopter impacted a tree then terrain, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures of the helicopter and recommended operating “at a lower gross weight.” Postacccident examination of the helicopter revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s insufficient monitoring of the helicopter’s power while flying at low altitude and at low airspeed, which resulted in the loss of rotor rpm and impact with a tree and terrain.

Full Narrative

On March 26, 2021, about 1515 central daylight time, a Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II, N178DF, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Dustin, Oklahoma. The private pilot and one passenger received serious injuries, and two passengers received minor injuries. The helicopter was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 aerial observation flight. The pilot stated that while maneuvering “low and slow” with three passengers onboard, he noticed “insufficient power” and shortly thereafter, the low rotor rpm warning annunciated. He applied full throttle and attempted to regain rotor rpm but was unsuccessful. The pilot stated that he was forced to land the helicopter immediately, during which the helicopter impacted a tree then terrain, resulting in substantial damage that included damage to the main rotor, fuselage, and tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter, and recommended operating “at a lower gross weight.” Postacccident examination of the helicopter revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time15:15 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN178DF
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorBrush Popper Aviation
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-540-AE1A5 · Reciprocating · 290
Seats4

People & Injuries

Injury Summary4 injuries (2 serious injuries, 2 minor injuries)
Fatal0
Serious2
Minor2
Uninjured0
Total4
Crew 1Age 59 · Second Class · Serious

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind150° @ 14 kt, gusting 21 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point45 C
Altimeter29.89 inHg
Observation Time15:15
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data