Probable cause
The overspeed of the main rotor system for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot stated that, while approaching the landing site at the conclusion of the 50-minute flight, the helicopter's main rotor experienced an overspeed condition. The pilot reduced the throttle but was unable to reduce the rotor rpm, and he initiated an autorotation to a field. The pilot reported that the helicopter's rotor had oversped about 2 weeks before the accident. A 50-hour inspection after the previous overspeed event did not reveal any anomalies. A postaccident visual examination of the helicopter by inspectors from the Federal Aviation Administration did not reveal any anomalies, and the reason for the overspeed of the main rotor system could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA040 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 14, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Sugarland, Texas
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R22 BETA
- N-number
- N7058Z
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1998
- 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.