Accident · 2007-08-02

NTSB case SEA07FA223 · Robinson R44 II · Part 135

What the record says

Event date: 2007-08-02
Event type: Accident
Highest injury level: Fatal injury
Aircraft: Robinson R44 II (N7531D)
Operating rule: Part 135
Operator: Classic Helicopter Corporation Operator named in NTSB report
Operated by (per NTSB report): Classic Helicopter Corp

Probable cause

The pilot's improper planning/decision in attempting a downwind takeoff under high density altitude conditions that resulted in a loss of control and impact with terrain. Contributing to the accident were the helicopter's gross weight in excess of the maximum hover out of ground effect limit, a high density altitude, and the gusty tailwind.

Source: NTSB case SEA07FA223

Flight crew

Flight-crew details for this event aren't in the NTSB database extract we hold (its coverage starts with 2008 events) — a gap in our data, not an absence of crew.

Facts as the NTSB records them — GroundCheck adds no judgement. Preliminary records may be revised as the investigation proceeds.

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