4 Mar 2008: Robinson R-22

4 Mar 2008: Robinson R-22 — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Meraux, LA, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure calculate weight and balance prior to flight. A contributing factor was the prevailing gusty winds.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The commercial pilot attempted to take-off with a passenger on a personal flight. As the helicopter lifted to a two foot hover the helicopter experienced a low rotor warning. The helicopter turned slowly 90 degrees to the north and then subsequently turned 720 degrees rapidly. During the attempted landing, the helicopter bounced, impacted terrain, and rolled over. The pilot and passenger were uninjured. The combined weight of the pilot, passenger, and fuel on-board exceeded the maximum takeoff gross weight. In addition, winds in the vicinity of the accident site were from 280 degrees at 13 knots gusting to 19 knots.

Contributing factors

cause Capability exceeded
factor Gusts

Conditions

Weather: VMC, wind 280/13kt, vis 10sm

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