Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate preflight inspection that failed to ensure all tie-down clamps were removed prior to takeoff, which resulted in the helicopter’s dynamic rollover.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, the helicopter was positioned on a trailer with clamps and blade holders. He stated that, during the preflight inspection, he forgot to remove the clamp that held the left skid to the trailer. During takeoff, the tie-down clamp did not give way and the helicopter experienced a dynamic rollover. The helicopter rolled to the left and impacted the ground, where it sustained structural damage.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA627 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 26, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Batesville, Texas
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R44
- N-number
- N99FJ
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.