On December 18, 2018, a Robinson R44 II operated by Moog Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Strykersville, NY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The structural failure of the home-built landing platform during landing, which resulted in the helicopter rolling over. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A helicopter rolled onto its right side after the home-built landing platform it was resting on collapsed during the engine cool-down period. The pilot reported normal landing and no helicopter malfunctions.
Accident Narrative
The pilot of a helicopter reported that, during landing on a home-built landing platform (dolly), the helicopter landed normally and was stable. After reducing engine power, the pilot began to wait the prescribed engine cool-down period before shutting down the engine. Approximately 60 seconds prior to complete shutdown, the platform collapsed. The helicopter subsequently rolled aft and to the right, coming to rest on its right side.
Examination
Postaccident examination of the platform revealed that the home-built landing platform had sustained a structural failure and collapsed. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom.
Contributing factors
Runway/land/takeoff/taxi surfaceEffect on operation
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