Casualties unknown

2005-03-22: Robinson R-22 BETA (N716GH) — Gold Coast Helicopters Inc — Waddell, AZ

Waddell, AZ, US

On March 22, 2005, a Robinson R-22 BETA (registration N716GH) operated by Gold Coast Helicopters Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Waddell, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain adequate rotor rpm and obstacle clearance, resulting in a dynamic rollover and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter contacted high vegetation and rolled over while maneuvering at low altitude. The pilot reported entering a ravine and experiencing rotor rpm decay. The right skid hooked vegetation, causing a rollover.

Accident Details

A helicopter was involved in an accident while maneuvering at low altitude, resulting in a rollover after contacting high vegetation. According to the pilot's report, the helicopter flew over a small hill into a ravine. As the pilot attempted to gain altitude to climb out of the ravine, the rotor rpm decayed. The pilot turned the helicopter, but during the turn, the right skid hooked onto vegetation. The helicopter subsequently rolled over, leading to the separation of the main rotor system, tail boom, and tail rotor.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported that after flying over a small hill into a ravine, he tried to increase altitude to exit the ravine. However, rotor rpm decayed. The pilot then initiated a turn, during which the right skid became entangled with high vegetation. The helicopter rolled over, causing structural separation of the main rotor system, tail boom, and tail rotor.

Damage

The helicopter sustained substantial damage, including separation of the main rotor system, tail boom, and tail rotor as a result of the rollover.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050503X00541. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.