Probable cause
The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.
NTSB analysis
The helicopter pilot reported that, during the off-airport landing, he believed he was landing on packed snow. He added that, during touchdown, the helicopter began to tip to the right, and he attempted to recover to no avail.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windshield and horizontal stabilizer.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA147 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 24, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Talkeetna, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R44
- N-number
- N7519G
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2004
- 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.