Robinson R44 II N804DF

Summary

On 16 July 2015 at about 13:30 local time, a Robinson R44 II registered N804DF was involved in an accident near Prairie Lea, Texas, United States. 3 people were on board and 3 had minor injuries. The aircraft was substantially damaged. The NTSB has published a probable cause for this accident; it is quoted in full below.

Date

16 July 2015 at 13:30

Classification

Accident

Location

Prairie Lea, Texas, United States

Coordinates

29.7131, -97.7764

Aircraft

Robinson R44 II

Registration

N804DF

Category

Helicopter

Year built

2006

Engines

1

Operator

Not recorded

Operating rule

Part 91: General Aviation

Purpose of flight

Personal

Phase of flight

Not recorded

Route

Fentress → Fentress

Aircraft damage

Substantial

Weather

VMC

Light

Day

NTSB number

GAA15CA232

3 people had minor injuries.

The pilot's failure to maintain rotor rpm, resulting in an uncontrolled descent and collision with trees.

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record. This site does not paraphrase or interpret it.

Read the full NTSB narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that while flying at a low altitude and low airspeed, over tree-covered terrain, he made a steep left turn downwind, and the low rotor rpm horn sounded. He stated that he lowered the collective slightly and rolled on throttle, but the helicopter descended and impacted trees and terrain. The pilot reported that he completed a damage assessment and flew the helicopter to his home airport without further incident. Substantial damage was sustained to the helicopter left aft fuselage frame assembly.    

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record.