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NTSB Report
August 21, 2021 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N222VB
Gonzales, LA
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 21, 2021
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Gonzales, LA
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II (2002)
Tail Number
N222VB
Operator
Down River Aviation
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN21LA378
The pilot reported that he was approaching to land at night when the helicopter tail rotor struck a tree. He felt the helicopter “shake a little” and noticed it was “falling.” The pilot attempted to cushion the landing by increasing collective and the helicopter came to rest on both skids upright. The helicopter fuselage and tail rotor sustained damaged during the hard landing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Descent/approach/glide path-Not attained/maintained
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that he was approaching to land at night when the helicopter tail rotor struck a tree. He felt the helicopter “shake a little” and noticed it was “falling.” The pilot attempted to cushion the landing by increasing collective and the helicopter came to rest on both skids upright. The helicopter fuselage and tail rotor sustained damaged during the hard landing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time23:00 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN222VB
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorDown River Aviation
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-540-AE1A5 · Reciprocating · 245
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 45 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightNight
WindCalm
Visibility7 sm
CeilingNone
Altimeter29.95 inHg
Observation Time22:55
Weather SourceWFAC