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May 9, 2023 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N704T

Skwentna, AK

Overview

Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 9, 2023
Injury Outcomes
2 injuries (2 minor injuries), 1 uninjured
Location
Skwentna, AK
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II (2004)
Tail Number
N704T
Operator
Willow Creek Aviation
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC23LA032

The pilot reported that, he was flying uphill over an area of snow-covered, mountainous terrain, when he encountered flat light and whiteout conditions, which made it difficult to discern topographical features. In an attempt to maintain visual reference with the ground, he turned the helicopter to the right to fly back down the hill. Subsequently, the right landing gear skid contacted terrain and the helicopter entered a dynamic rollover to the right, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, tail boom, and powertrain system. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance from terrain while maneuvering in adverse weather conditions, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that, he was flying uphill over an area of snow-covered, mountainous terrain, when he encountered flat light and whiteout conditions, which made it difficult to discern topographical features. In an attempt to maintain visual reference with the ground, he turned the helicopter to the right to fly back down the hill. Subsequently, the right landing gear skid contacted terrain and the helicopter entered a dynamic rollover to the right, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, tail boom, and powertrain system. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time12:00 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledCvfr
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN704T
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorWillow Creek Aviation
Operating RulePart 135
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-540-AE1A5 · Reciprocating · 260
Seats4

People & Injuries

Injury Summary2 injuries (2 minor injuries), 1 uninjured
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor2
Uninjured1
Total3
Crew 1Minor
Crew 2Age 45 · Second Class · Minor
Crew 3None

Conditions

ConditionsUnknown
LightDaylight
Wind130° @ 9 kt, gusting 18 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point48 F / 28 F
Altimeter29.82 inHg
Observation Time11:56
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data