Summary
On April 21, 2012, a Robinson Helicopter R22 ALPHA (N121MR) was involved in an incident near Palmer, AK. All 1 person aboard were uninjured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this incident to be: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a tailrotor strike.
The pilot flew to a practice area and landed the helicopter on what the pilot thought was firm snow. As he landed, the helicopter suddenly broke through the surface, and its tailrotor struck the snow. The pilot repositioned the helicopter, and the tailrotor chip light illuminated. An inspection showed that the tailrotor driveshaft had sheared.
This incident is documented in NTSB report ANC12CA032. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N121MR.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a tailrotor strike.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The pilot flew to a practice area and landed the helicopter on what the pilot thought was firm snow. As he landed, the helicopter suddenly broke through the surface, and its tailrotor struck the snow. The pilot repositioned the helicopter, and the tailrotor chip light illuminated. An inspection showed that the tailrotor driveshaft had sheared.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC12CA032