Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees while maneuvering at a low altitude.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while he was spotting deer, the helicopter hit a treetop, damaging the tail rotor. The helicopter began to spin, and the pilot closed the throttle. He landed the helicopter, and it then rolled onto its left side.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot's recommendation was to fly at a higher and safer altitude.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA247 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 18, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Sonora, Texas
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R44
- N-number
- N4487D
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2006
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial observation
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.