On September 30, 2007, a Robinson R44 (registration N8353K) operated by Wilson Anderson was involved in an aviation accident near Jackson Center, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The reported vibration in the helicopter during an approach for landing for undetermined reasons. Contributing to the accident was the mature cornfield. 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.
While approaching a landing zone, a helicopter pilot encountered main rotor vibrations that worsened. During landing, the tail rotor struck corn, separated, and the helicopter rotated, causing blade and landing gear damage. Inspections found no preexisting anomalies.
Incident Summary
A helicopter pilot reported feeling vibrations in the main rotor while approaching a landing zone. The vibrations intensified as the helicopter descended. When the helicopter reached an altitude of approximately 10 to 15 feet above ground level, the vibrations became severe enough that the pilot elected to lower the collective and land.
Sequence of Events
During the landing, the tail rotor contacted tall corn, resulting in the separation of the tail rotor gearbox from the tail rotor boom. The helicopter subsequently rotated about 180 degrees during the ground impact. The main rotor blades struck the ground, and the landing gear separated from the fuselage.
Inspection Findings
An on-site inspection of the helicopter revealed no preexisting anomalies. Components of the helicopter were shipped to Robinson Helicopter Company for further inspection under the oversight of a National Transportation Safety Board aviation safety investigator. The detailed inspection of the helicopter components also revealed no preexisting anomalies that would account for the vibrations reported by the pilot.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 30 Sept 2007 Robinson R44 accident near Jackson Center, OH?
While approaching a landing zone, a helicopter pilot encountered main rotor vibrations that worsened. During landing, the tail rotor struck corn, separated, and the helicopter rotated, causing blade and landing gear damage. Inspections found no preexisting anomalies.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Sept 2007 involved a Robinson R44, registration N8353K, operated by Wilson Anderson, at Jackson Center, OH.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The reported vibration in the helicopter during an approach for landing for undetermined reasons. Contributing to the accident was the mature cornfield.