14 Mar 2009: Robinson Helicopter R22 Beta — Richard Snure

14 Mar 2009: Robinson Helicopter R22 Beta — Richard Snure

No fatalities • Douglas, AZ, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to properly secure the helicopter prior to exiting the aircraft.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that he landed on a semi-trailer to pay the truck driver for a load of hay, and subsequently exited the helicopter with the engine running, the control frictions on, and the governor off. The pilot revealed that after exiting the helicopter and while he was paying the truck driver, the helicopter fell off of the truck, which resulted in substantial damage to its tail boom.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • cause Incorrect use/operation

Conditions

Weather
VMC

Related events

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