What happened
On July 7, 2017, a Robinson R44 helicopter, registration N3203D, was performing agricultural spraying operations near Paoli, Indiana. The pilot was attempting to spray a field following a three-hour delay caused by a broken fuel truck.
While flying south with a southwest wind of approximately 15 knots, the pilot initiated a low-altitude, low-speed left turn toward the north. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered a nose-low attitude and began sinking more rapidly than anticipated. In an effort to avoid powerline wires, the pilot aborted the turn and transitioned to a southeast heading to utilize the crosswind. As the pilot increased the collective to arrest the sink rate, the low rotor RPM horn sounded. The helicopter struck the ground, bounced, and rolled onto its left side. There were no injuries resulting from the accident.
The investigation
The investigation reviewed the aircraft's weight and atmospheric conditions. The pilot noted the aircraft was 40 pounds below its maximum gross weight, but acknowledged approaching the field with the understanding that the aircraft was heavier and the conditions were hotter and windier than originally planned. At the time of the accident, the temperature was 88°F with a density altitude of 2,786 feet. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures prior to the impact.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system and the tailboom.
- The pilot's decision to maneuver the aircraft at a low altitude and airspeed during a period of gusting winds contributed to the high descent rate.