1 fatality

8 Oct 2017: ROBINSON R44 — Gramzda, Latvia

Gramzda, Latvia

On 8 Oct 2017, a ROBINSON R44 was involved in an aviation accident near Gramzda, Latvia. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

On October 8, 2017, a Robinson R44 helicopter (YL-HBH) struck a powerline after takeoff near Gramzda, Latvia, resulting in one passenger fatality and serious injuries to the pilot and two other passengers.

Accident Details

On October 8, 2017, at approximately 1014 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), a Robinson R44 helicopter, registration YL-HBH, collided with a powerline shortly after takeoff near Gramzda, Latvia. The helicopter was occupied by a pilot and three passengers. One passenger sustained fatal injuries, while the pilot and the two remaining passengers were seriously injured.

Investigation

The Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (TAIIB) of the Republic of Latvia is conducting an investigation into the incident. Inquiries regarding the accident may be directed to the TAIIB at 58 Brivibas Street, Riga, LV-1011, Latvia.

Aircraft and Location

The helicopter involved was a Robinson R44, a four-seat light helicopter commonly used for private and training purposes. The accident occurred near the village of Gramzda, located in western Latvia. The exact circumstances leading to the powerline strike are under investigation.

Status

As of the initial report, the investigation is ongoing. No further details regarding the cause of the accident have been released by the TAIIB.