18 Feb 2020: Robinson R22 UNDESIGNAT

18 Feb 2020: Robinson R22 UNDESIGNAT — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Cotulla, TX, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to remove the right skid trailer tie-down before attempting to take off, which resulted in a dynamic roll-over.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The commercial pilot was attempting to takeoff from a trailer in a helicopter to conduct an aerial survey. During the lift off from the trailer, the helicopter rolled right and impacted the ground. A post accident inspection revealed that the right skid tie-down to the trailer had not been removed prior to the takeoff attempt. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • cause Incorrect use/operation

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 100/08kt, vis 3sm

Related events

Same aircraft

  • 20 Apr 2026 — ROBINSON R22 (—)
  • 6 Feb 2026 — ROBINSON R22 (—)
  • 2 Dec 2025 — ROBINSON R22 (—)
  • 14 Oct 2025 — ROBINSON R22 BETA (ESCOLA DE AVIAÇÃO CIVIL ASAS ROTATIVAS LTDAb)
  • 9 Oct 2025 — ROBINSON R22 (—)

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