Accident Overview
On April 5, 2021, at 1700 central daylight time, a Robinson R44 helicopter, registration N8348X, was substantially damaged during an accident near Johnson, Kansas. The helicopter was operated under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. The pilot and one passenger were not injured.
Flight Details
According to statements from the pilot and a pilot-rated passenger, they were using the helicopter to inspect wheat fields. The wind was from the south at 10 knots. The pilot executed a hover close to the ground. During the hover, the helicopter experienced a sudden unanticipated yaw to the left, completing more than one full rotation. It then landed hard in the field and rolled onto its left side. The pilot reported no awareness of any mechanical malfunctions.
Examination Results
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector reported substantial damage to the fuselage and main rotor blades. Examination of the helicopter and its flight control system revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Manufacturer Safety Notice
The Robinson Helicopter Company had previously issued a safety notice addressing unanticipated yaw. It stated that a pilot's failure to apply proper pedal inputs in response to strong or gusty winds during hover or low-speed flight may result in an unanticipated yaw. It advised pilots to be aware of conditions, such as a left crosswind, that may require large or rapid pedal inputs.