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Helicopter Hard Landing After Rightward Veer During Departure (N744MD)

Rayville, LA, US

On February 4, 2006, a Robinson R44 (registration N744MD) was involved in an aviation accident near Rayville, LA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain rotor RPM, which resulted in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot with 673 total hours and 120 in type experienced a hard landing after the helicopter veered right at 40 feet. Low rotor RPM warning sounded; pilot and two passengers uninjured.

Accident Summary

A private pilot, who reported 673 total flight hours with 120 hours in the same make and model helicopter, was conducting a departure for his third flight of the day. The wind was from 300 degrees at 10 knots, and the temperature was 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sequence of Events

At approximately 40 feet above ground level (AGL), the helicopter suddenly veered to the right. The pilot responded by applying full left anti-torque pedal. Shortly after, the low rotor RPM warning horn sounded. The pilot then lowered the collective control and applied aft cyclic. As the helicopter quickly settled, the pilot pulled up on the collective control but was unable to arrest the high rate of descent.

Landing and Outcome

The helicopter landed hard but remained upright. The pilot and two passengers were uninjured.

Loss of control in flight

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Robinson R44 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Feb 2006 Robinson R44 accident near Rayville, LA?

A private pilot with 673 total hours and 120 in type experienced a hard landing after the helicopter veered right at 40 feet. Low rotor RPM warning sounded; pilot and two passengers uninjured.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Feb 2006 Robinson R44 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Feb 2006 involved a Robinson R44, registration N744MD, at Rayville, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain rotor RPM, which resulted in a hard landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060302X00262. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.