26 Aug 2011: ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44

26 Aug 2011: ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Batesville, TX, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate preflight inspection that failed to ensure all tie-down clamps were removed prior to takeoff, which resulted in the helicopter’s dynamic rollover.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

According to the pilot, the helicopter was positioned on a trailer with clamps and blade holders. The pilot added that during the preflight inspection, he forgot to remove the clamp, which held the left skid to the trailer. During takeoff, the tie-down clamp did not give way and the helicopter encountered dynamic rollover. The helicopter rolled to the left and impacted the ground. Postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed structural damage to the helicopter.

Contributing factors

  • down/mooring
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 050/04kt, vis 10sm

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