On August 26, 2011, a ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 was involved in an aviation accident near Batesville, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot forgot to remove a tie-down clamp during the preflight inspection, resulting in dynamic rollover. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A helicopter experienced dynamic rollover during takeoff after the pilot forgot to remove a clamp securing the left skid to a trailer during preflight, resulting in structural damage.
Accident Details
According to the pilot, the helicopter was positioned on a trailer using clamps and blade holders for ground handling. During the preflight inspection, the pilot overlooked the removal of a clamp that held the left skid firmly to the trailer. When the pilot initiated the takeoff, the tie-down clamp did not release, causing the helicopter to enter a dynamic rollover condition. The helicopter rolled to the left and subsequently struck the ground.
Investigation Findings
Postaccident examination of the wreckage confirmed structural damage to the helicopter. The pilot stated that the omission of the clamp removal during the preflight inspection led directly to the dynamic rollover event. No other contributing factors were identified in the pilot's account.
Probable cause
The pilot forgot to remove a tie-down clamp during the preflight inspection, resulting in dynamic rollover.
Contributing factors
Causes
Pilot
Other contributing factors
down/mooring
Related events
Same aircraft family
13 Sep 2026 — ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II (Chop Air LLC)
16 Jul 2026 — ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II (D&p LLC)
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Aug 2011 ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 accident near Batesville, TX?
A helicopter experienced dynamic rollover during takeoff after the pilot forgot to remove a clamp securing the left skid to a trailer during preflight, resulting in structural damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Aug 2011 ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Aug 2011 involved a ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44, at Batesville, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot forgot to remove a tie-down clamp during the preflight inspection, resulting in dynamic rollover.
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