Probable cause
An in-flight bird strike.
NTSB analysis
The instructor pilot stated the intent of the flight was to practice autorotations, 180 degree autorotations and emergency procedures at another local airport. While enroute, approximately 1500 feet above the ground, three birds flew toward the helicopter. The instructor pilot took the controls as one of the birds and the retreating main rotor blade collided. The pilot landed the helicopter without further incident. Examination of the helicopter revealed substantial damage to the main rotor blade.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15CA039 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 29, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter Co R66
- N-number
- N67GA
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2014
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
Other records under this N-number
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.