Probable cause

The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in impact with brush and a loss of helicopter control.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that, after multiple attempts to find a suitable landing site on a mountain ridgetop, the tail rotor impacted brush during landing. The helicopter pivoted, the main rotor contacted a communications tower, and the helicopter rotated 180° and rolled onto its left side.

The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windscreen and main rotor mast.

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

Contributing factors

cause Pilot
Effect on operation
Contributed to outcome
Effect on operation

Conditions

Weather: VMC, vis 10sm

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19 Jun 2018: Robinson R66 No Series — Ridgeline Aviation Inc.