Accident Details
On February 26, 2021, at approximately 1540 central standard time, a Robinson R44 helicopter, registered as N7184N, sustained substantial damage when it collided with terrain near Dunn, Texas. The pilot and two passengers reported no injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as an aerial gunning operation.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that he had recently refueled the helicopter and departed with the fuel tanks approximately half full. While flying at an altitude of 80 feet above ground level, he heard what he described as "rotors droop" and the engine "bog down." He applied right pedal and increased throttle input, but the engine did not respond. The helicopter subsequently descended into trees and impacted the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.
Investigation
Investigators were unable to determine the helicopter's airspeed at the time of the accident based on available evidence. A postaccident examination and engine functional test run revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. No probable cause was determined.