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Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II accident at Washington, WI, 18 Oct 2020
On October 18, 2020, a Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II operated by Midwestern Helicopter, LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Washington, WI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control during a hover and improper recovery action after the helicopter contacted the ground, which resulted in a dynamic rollover sequence and an impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control during a hover and improper recovery action after the helicopter contacted the ground, which resulted in a dynamic rollover sequence and an impact with terrain.
— NTSB Determination
Contributing factors
PilotLateral/bank control — Not attained/maintained
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Oct 2020 Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II accident near Washington, WI?
The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control during a hover and improper recovery action after the helicopter contacted the ground, which resulted in a dynamic rollover sequence and an impact with terrain.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Oct 2020 Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Oct 2020 involved a Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II, operated by Midwestern Helicopter, LLC, at Washington, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control during a hover and improper recovery action after the helicopter contacted the ground, which resulted in a dynamic rollover sequence and an impact with terrain.
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