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August 29, 2025 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N74435

Petersville, AK

Overview

Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 29, 2025
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (4 uninjured)
Location
Petersville, AK
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II (2005)
Tail Number
N74435
Operator
Pollux Aviation
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC25LA099

The pilot reported that he was transporting three passengers and their equipment to a remote landing zone (LZ) in mountainous terrain. According to the operator, the helicopter’s estimated gross weight was 2,440 lbs., approximately 60 lbs. below the maximum gross weight of 2,500 lbs. The pilot stated that a guide onboard the helicopter was directing him to the LZ. He had initially planned to conduct a northwesterly reconnaissance flyover of the landing area; however, he became distracted when the guide pointed out the intended LZ directly ahead. As a result, the pilot immediately turned toward the site and initiated a steep approach without completing the planned flyover. During the approach, the pilot reported an increasing descent rate. He applied additional collective to arrest the descent, after which the full-throttle annunciator illuminated. Despite the collective being fully raised, the helicopter continued descending and subsequently impacted the ground. The helicopter landed hard and rolled over, sustaining substantial damage to the fuselage and the main and tail rotor drive systems. Following the accident, the pilot estimated the wind was from the south at approximately 15 to 20 knots. He reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s exceedance of the helicopter’s available power while landing in a remote confined area, which resulted in rotor droop and a hard landing.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that he was transporting three passengers and their equipment to a remote landing zone (LZ) in mountainous terrain. According to the operator, the helicopter’s estimated gross weight was 2,440 lbs., approximately 60 lbs. below the maximum gross weight of 2,500 lbs. The pilot stated that a guide onboard the helicopter was directing him to the LZ. He had initially planned to conduct a northwesterly reconnaissance flyover of the landing area; however, he became distracted when the guide pointed out the intended LZ directly ahead. As a result, the pilot immediately turned toward the site and initiated a steep approach without completing the planned flyover. During the approach, the pilot reported an increasing descent rate. He applied additional collective to arrest the descent, after which the full-throttle annunciator illuminated. Despite the collective being fully raised, the helicopter continued descending and subsequently impacted the ground. The helicopter landed hard and rolled over, sustaining substantial damage to the fuselage and the main and tail rotor drive systems. Following the accident, the pilot estimated the wind was from the south at approximately 15 to 20 knots. He reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time11:50 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledCvfr
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN74435
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorPollux Aviation
Operating RulePart 135
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-540-AE1A5 · Reciprocating · 245
Seats4

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (4 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured4
Total4
Crew 1Age 55 · Second Class · None
Crew 2None
Crew 3None
Crew 4None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind180° @ 11 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 1400 ft
Temperature / Dew Point52 F / 48 F
Altimeter29.89 inHg
Observation Time11:53
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data