On 1 Feb 2009, a ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA was involved in an aviation accident near Lexington, KY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter during takeoff. Contributing to this accident was the interference of the flight controls by the heavy coat and boots the pilot was wearing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A Robinson R-22 helicopter spun uncontrollably during takeoff from a non-movement area, striking a snow bank and sustaining substantial damage. The pilot cited heavy clothing may have hindered control inputs.
Accident Details
The pilot of a Robinson R-22 reported that he was preparing for takeoff from the center of a non-movement area. As he advanced the throttle to 100%, the helicopter began to spin rapidly to the left while still on the ground. The pilot attempted to counteract the rotation by fully lowering the collective lever and reducing throttle, but observed no noticeable effect. He then pulled the mixture control knob to stop the engine. The helicopter continued to spin and drift until the tailboom contacted a snow bank, resulting in substantial damage.
Pilot Observations
The pilot noted that he was wearing a heavy coat and boots at the time of the accident, which he believed may have interfered with his ability to operate the collective and anti-torque pedal controls. No other factors or causal links were provided in the source.
Contributing factors
Causes
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot
Other contributing factors
Ability to respond/compensate
Related events
Same aircraft family
17 Apr 2026 — ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II (CONCHO AVIATION LLC)