On November 8, 2004, a Robinson R22 BETA (registration N995JW) was involved in an aviation accident near Eagle Pass, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter. A contributing factor was the unsuitable terrain for landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot experienced an uncontrolled right yaw while herding cattle. Despite full left pedal input, the turn could not be stopped. The pilot landed in a confined field with brush; the helicopter contacted ground at high descent rate and came to rest upright. No mechanical malfunction was reported.
Incident Overview
While maneuvering at low altitude during a cattle herding operation, the helicopter developed an uncontrolled yaw to the right. The commercial pilot, holding a total flight experience of 6,000 hours, applied full left pedal input in an attempt to correct the yaw. However, the right turn could not be arrested.
Emergency Landing
Unable to regain control of the helicopter, the pilot executed a landing to a confined area consisting of brush and high vegetation. The helicopter contacted the ground with a high rate of descent and subsequently came to rest in an upright attitude.
Post-Incident Findings
The pilot reported that there was no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure of the helicopter prior to or during the event.