On January 12, 2004, a Robinson R-22 BETA (registration N7061V) was involved in an aviation accident near Encino, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees while maneuvering at low altitude during a cattle-herding operation, which resulted in the tail rotor contacting a tree and subsequent loss of control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter sustained significant damage after its tail rotor contacted a tree while maneuvering at low altitude during a cattle-herding mission, leading to an uncontrolled autorotation and subsequent impact with additional vegetation.
What happened
The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting a cattle-herding operation. The helicopter was flying at a low altitude to manage livestock when it maneuvered near vegetation. During this phase of flight, the tail rotor assembly made contact with a tree.
Following the initial impact, the aircraft experienced an uncommanded yawing motion. Recognizing the loss of anti-torque control, the pilot initiated an autorotation to maintain lift and attempt a controlled descent. However, during the autorotation maneuver, the helicopter descended into a dense stand of trees and brush. The aircraft impacted this vegetation and came to rest on its left side.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees while maneuvering at low altitude during a cattle-herding operation, which resulted in the tail rotor contacting a tree and subsequent loss of control.