On May 31, 2006, a Robinson R44 (registration N544LB) was involved in an aviation accident near Stapleton, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot not maintaining clearance fron the tree during landing. A factor was the tree. 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.
A helicopter sustained substantial damage after its main rotor struck a tree during a landing repositioning maneuver. The pilot reported variable winds and no mechanical malfunctions.
Incident Overview
A helicopter was substantially damaged during landing when its main rotor impacted a tree and the aircraft subsequently struck terrain. The reported wind was variable at 4 knots. The pilot stated that the landing site was not smooth enough for a gentle touchdown, and he lifted too quickly to reposition. This maneuver resulted in the rotor cutting the top of a nearby pine tree at approximately 20 feet. The helicopter settled about 30 feet away, coming to rest next to a building with additional damage to the main rotor, tailcone, and skid struts.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter in reference to the flight.
What happened in the 31 May 2006 Robinson R44 accident near Stapleton, NE?
A helicopter sustained substantial damage after its main rotor struck a tree during a landing repositioning maneuver. The pilot reported variable winds and no mechanical malfunctions.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 2006 involved a Robinson R44, registration N544LB, at Stapleton, NE.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot not maintaining clearance fron the tree during landing. A factor was the tree.
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