On September 29, 2007, a Robinson R-22 BETA (registration N74557) was involved in an aviation accident near Silver City, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter while maneuvering in a narrow canyon with a tailwind, which resulted in a settling condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot lost control while maneuvering in a narrow canyon, encountering a tailwind that caused the helicopter to settle and strike a tree before impacting the ground.
What happened
The incident occurred when a student pilot was attempting to locate a fence situated in the bottom of a narrow canyon. During the operation, the pilot initiated a turn within the confined space. As the aircraft maneuvered, it encountered a tailwind condition. This wind component caused the helicopter to settle rapidly toward the ground. The main rotor blades struck a tree during this descent. Following the impact with the vegetation, the helicopter continued its downward trajectory and impacted the terrain.
The investigation
A technical examination of the helicopter's systems was conducted following the accident. The inspection focused on identifying any mechanical failures or anomalies that might have contributed to the loss of control. The review found no anomalies in the helicopter systems. The mechanical condition of the aircraft appeared normal, suggesting the cause was related to flight dynamics rather than equipment failure.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the encounter with a tailwind during a turn in a narrow canyon. This weather condition caused the helicopter to settle, leading to the main rotor striking a tree and the subsequent impact with the ground. The confined terrain likely limited the pilot's options for recovery.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter while maneuvering in a narrow canyon with a tailwind, which resulted in a settling condition.