Probable cause
The pilot's failure to remove the right skid trailer tie-down before attempting to take off, which resulted in a dynamic roll-over.
NTSB analysis
The helicopter pilot was attempting to take off from a trailer to conduct an aerial survey. During the liftoff from the trailer, the helicopter rolled right and impacted the ground. Postaccident examination of the helicopter revealed that the right skid trailer tie-down had not been removed before the takeoff attempt. Both main rotors, the fuselage, and the tailboom sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA090 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 18, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cotulla, Texas
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson R22
- N-number
- N10786
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1993
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial observation
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.