4 Jul 2017: ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II

4 Jul 2017: ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Easton, PA, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s distraction during liftoff due to the tail rotor chip warning light illuminating, which resulted in the helicopter drifting right, the skid touching down, and a dynamic roll-over.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that during lift off, the tail rotor chip warning light illuminated, "and distracted me for a moment." The helicopter drifted to the right, the right skid contacted the ground, and the helicopter rolled over on to its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor drive shaft, the horizontal stabilizer and the main rotor blades.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained
cause Pilot
cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather: VMC, wind 000/03kt, vis 10sm

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