Accident Details
On February 18, 2017, at approximately 0800 mountain standard time, a Robinson R22 Beta, registration N7095A, operated by a private pilot under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight, experienced a loss of control while maneuvering and landed hard in an open field near Holbrook, Arizona. The pilot and one passenger were not injured. The helicopter sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.
Flight Sequence
The flight departed from a private residence at about 0715. According to the pilot's written statement, the intent was to fly around Holbrook for personal reasons. The helicopter overflew a cow pasture and descended to observe the cows. The pilot reported an airspeed of about 10 knots with a 7-knot headwind. While executing a 180-degree turn, the helicopter began an un-commanded descent. The pilot pulled the cyclic control, which resulted in a decrease in engine and main rotor blade rpm. He attempted to lower and increase the throttle and flared for landing, but the helicopter landed hard. The main rotor blades contacted and subsequently severed the tail boom.
Mechanical Status
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation of the helicopter.
Conclusion
The accident investigation source provides no stated cause for the loss of control. The pilot reported no mechanical issues.