Accident Details
Date
Saturday, February 24, 2018
NTSB Number
GAA18CA147
Location
Talkeetna, AK
Event ID
20180301X70512
Coordinates
62.169445, -149.689727
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 selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Name
STEARNS WILLIAM W
Address
HC 89 BOX 8560
City
TALKEETNA
State / Zip Code
AK 99676-9705
Country
United States
Analysis
The helicopter pilot reported that, during the off-airport landing, he believed he was landing on packed snow. He added that, during touchdown the helicopter began to tip to the right and he attempted to recover to no avail.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windshield and horizontal stabilizer.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA18CA147