N570MD

Substantial
None

ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44S/N: 0192

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, May 15, 2010
NTSB Number
CEN10CA251
Location
Baraboo, WI
Event ID
20100517X03201
Coordinates
43.521945, -89.770835
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with crops while maneuvering during aerial application.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N570MD
Make
ROBINSON HELICOPTER
Serial Number
0192
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1995
Model / ICAO
R44R44
Aircraft Type
Rotorcraft
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
MD HELICOPTER SERVICES LLC
Address
N6164 COBB RD
Status
Deregistered
City
ELKHORN
State / Zip Code
WI 53121-4036
Country
United States

Analysis

According to the pilot, he had just departed a gravel road (loading zone) to complete an aerial application to an alfalfa field. Shortly after departure, he executed a right turn and one of the helicopter spray booms contacted the 2 1/2 feet tall alfalfa. The helicopter then began a downward right spin. Subsequently, the spray boom dragged on the alfalfa and "initiated a dynamic rollover." The main rotor blades contacted terrain and the helicopter "cartwheeled" onto its left side. Examination of the helicopter revealed damage to the main rotor blades, tail boom, tail rotor, and fuselage. The pilot recommended the following: "Ensure adequate altitude before initiating turns, and exercise more caution when over tall grass or crops."

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN10CA251