On 11 Dec 2012, a ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA operated by SMITH DAVID L TRUSTEE was involved in an aviation accident near Rawlins, WY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain main rotor rpm during takeoff, which resulted in a hard landing and subsequent rollover. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot conducting a high density altitude takeoff in gusting wind conditions experienced a main rotor low RPM warning, aborted the takeoff, and landed hard in a gravel parking lot, resulting in a rollover and substantial damage.
Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that he was conducting a high density altitude takeoff in a single-engine helicopter under gusting wind conditions. While accelerating to best rate of climb speed, the main rotor low RPM horn activated at 97 percent. The pilot attempted to increase the main rotor RPM back to 102 percent but was unsuccessful. He aborted the takeoff and sought a landing site near the departure end of the runway. The helicopter subsequently touched down at a high rate of descent in a gravel parking lot adjacent to the airport and rolled over.
Aircraft and Weight
The pilot stated that the helicopter's takeoff weight was 66 pounds below the gross takeoff weight. He reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Report
The pilot indicated that the accident could have been prevented by shipping all personal items not required for flight to the next low altitude airport along his route of flight. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail boom assembly and main rotor blades.
Contributing factors
PilotProp/rotor parameters — Not attained/maintained
Related events
Same aircraft family
17 Apr 2026 — ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II (CONCHO AVIATION LLC)