Robinson Helicopter R44 N3040P accident near Knox City, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a rollover and an impact with terrain.

NTSB analysis

During takeoff in the helicopter, the pilot reduced collective control input. Once the skids began to lift off the ground, the pilot felt the helicopter spin to the left. The pilot applied corrective right pedal input and pulled up on the collective. Once the skids were off the ground, the helicopter spun harder to the left, and the pilot could not overcome the spin. The helicopter rolled onto its side, which resulted in substantial damage to the tail boom, fuselage, and main rotors. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions of the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN24LA135 for the full record.