What happened
On July 8, 2018, a Robinson R44-II, registration N616HS, was involved in a fatal accident in Williamsburg, Virginia. Earlier that morning, the pilot had flown from Stafford Regional Airport (RMN) to Williamsburg Jamestown Airport (JGG) for a meeting. After refueling the helicopter to capacity, the pilot departed JGG for the return flight to RMN at approximately 16:30.
ADS-B data indicated that the helicopter climbed to a pressure altitude of about 1,700 feet, where it leveled off and increased groundspeed from 60 to 110 knots. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft entered a right, decreasing-radius, turning descent. At its final recorded position, the helicopter was descending at a rate exceeding 10,000 feet per minute near the accident site. Witnesses near the location described the aircraft flying low—one estimating a height of 10 and 0 feet—and noted the helicopter rocking unsteadily before suddenly pitching nose down into the roof of a two-story condominium complex. The impact resulted in 2 fatal injuries, involving the pilot and one person on the ground.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and found the main components of the helicopter at the site, though the tail boom was missing. While some components were consumed by a post-crash fire, the engine oil coolers showed grinding damage consistent with the engine rotating at the time of impact. Although the engine crankshaft gear bolt was found unthreaded and the gear index pin was sheared, examination of the bolt and locking tab revealed no pre-impact damage. Investigators determined it was likely the bolt unthreaded during the accident sequence.
Medical records revealed the 85-year-old pilot had a history of Parkinson's disease and tremors. His medical records also indicated diagnoses of mild dementia and mild cognitive impairment. His physicians had previously recommended that he not fly due to concerns regarding his reaction time, judgment, and attention.
Findings
- The pilot's progressive physical and cognitive impairments likely affected his ability to safely operate the aircraft.
- The pilot did not possess a valid medical certificate at the time of the accident; his recent application had been denied due to cognitive impairment and Parkinson's disease.