Probable cause
The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in impact with brush and a loss of helicopter control.
NTSB analysis
The helicopter pilot reported that, after multiple attempts to find a suitable landing site on a mountain ridgetop, the tail rotor impacted brush during landing. The helicopter pivoted, the main rotor contacted a communications tower, and the helicopter then rotated 180° and rolled onto its left side.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windscreen and main rotor mast.
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 GAA18CA366 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 19, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cordova, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson R66
- N-number
- N7040P
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2012
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
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.