On February 24, 1996, a Robinson R22B (registration N8141L) was involved in an aviation accident near Garland, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the pilot to maintain sufficient altitude and tail rotor clearance from the terrain, while demonstrating rearward movement in a hover. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter rolled inverted when the tail rotor struck the ground during a rearward hover demonstration. The pilot reported no mechanical issues with the aircraft.
Incident Overview
During a hover maneuver, the pilot decided to demonstrate a rearward hover to a passenger. The helicopter was at an altitude of less than five feet above ground level when the tail rotor made contact with the ground.
Sequence of Events
Upon the tail rotor striking the ground, directional control was lost. The helicopter began to rotate to the right and roll to the left. Subsequently, the left skid contacted the ground, causing the aircraft to continue rolling into an inverted position.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical problems with the aircraft prior to or during the incident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Feb 1996 Robinson R22B accident near Garland, TX?
A helicopter rolled inverted when the tail rotor struck the ground during a rearward hover demonstration. The pilot reported no mechanical issues with the aircraft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Feb 1996 involved a Robinson R22B, registration N8141L, at Garland, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the pilot to maintain sufficient altitude and tail rotor clearance from the terrain, while demonstrating rearward movement in a hover.
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