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ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II accident at Sylva, NC, 14 Jun 2021
On June 14, 2021, a ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II operated by Leading Edge Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Sylva, NC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s intentional departure from the procedures published in the manufacturer’s flight training guide, and his subsequent loss of engine rpm, rotor rpm, and aircraft control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 14 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
The pilot’s intentional departure from the procedures published in the manufacturer’s flight training guide, and his subsequent loss of engine rpm, rotor rpm, and aircraft control.
— NTSB Determination
Contributing factors
Incorrect use/operationInstructor/check pilot
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Jun 2021 ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II accident near Sylva, NC?
The pilot’s intentional departure from the procedures published in the manufacturer’s flight training guide, and his subsequent loss of engine rpm, rotor rpm, and aircraft control.
Were there any fatalities in the 14 Jun 2021 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 14 Jun 2021 involved a ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II, operated by Leading Edge Helicopters, at Sylva, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s intentional departure from the procedures published in the manufacturer’s flight training guide, and his subsequent loss of engine rpm, rotor rpm, and aircraft control.
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