On June 19, 2018, a Robinson R66 No Series operated by Ridgeline Aviation Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Cordova, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in impact with brush and a loss of helicopter control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A helicopter pilot reported tail rotor brush strike during landing attempts on a mountain ridgetop, leading to main rotor contact with a communications tower and the helicopter rolling onto its left side. Substantial damage occurred to the windscreen and main rotor mast.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot's report, the helicopter made multiple attempts to find a suitable landing site on a mountain ridgetop. During a landing attempt, the tail rotor impacted brush. Following the impact, the helicopter pivoted, and the main rotor contacted a communications tower. The helicopter then rotated 180 degrees and rolled onto its left side.
Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windscreen and main rotor mast. No other damage items were specified in the report.
Pilot's Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
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