Mcdonnell Douglas Helicopter 600N N607BP accident near Angleton, Texas

Probable cause

A loss of control while hovering for reasons that could not be determined, because postaccident examination revealed no mechanical anomalies or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

Before landing, the private pilot conducted an area reconnaissance in the helicopter about 300 to 500 ft above ground level (agl), and noted the wind was calm. While performing hover work about 15 ft agl, the helicopter pitched nose down, and the pilot pulled aft on the cyclic to recover. The helicopter then rolled to the right, and the pilot applied left cyclic. The pilot stated that the helicopter seemed to right itself, then "snap turned" to the right and entered a spin. The pilot then attempted to land the helicopter, and during the landing, the helicopter impacted terrain and rolled onto its left side. Examination of the airframe, flight controls, and engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation, and the reason for the loss of control could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA058 for the full record.