Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from terrain, which resulted in the right skid contacting the ground and a subsequent rollover.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was performing low altitude practice maneuvers in a pasture. While performing a quick stop maneuver, the pilot stated that he didn’t realize how close he was to the ground. During the maneuver, the right skid contacted the ground, and the helicopter rolled onto its side. The rollover and subsequent impact with terrain resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and tail boom. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the helicopter.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA24LA393 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 23, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ravenel, South Carolina
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II
- N-number
- N153LA
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2013
- 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.