Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from the ground, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent dynamic rollover.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while conducting a pedal turn at a hover over rough dirt and grass east of the taxiway, the right skid contacted the ground and became lodged. The helicopter subsequently spun and rolled on its right side. During the rollover, the helicopter's main rotor blades struck the ground which resulted in substantial damage to the main rotor blades and fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15CA119 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 3, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Bernardino, California
- Nearest airport
- San Bernardino Intl (SBD)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R22 BETA
- N-number
- N4003S
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1990
- 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.