4 fatal · Robinson R44 II · 2007-08-02 · Easton, WA, USA
Event
NTSB number
SEA07FA223
Event ID
20070808X01151
Type
Accident
Date
2007-08-02
Location
Easton, WA, USA
Coordinates
47.184444, -121.241943
Injuries
Highest injury
FATL
Fatal
4
Serious
0
Minor
0
Uninjured
0
Total aboard
4
Aircraft
Make
Robinson
Model
R44 II
Registration
N7531D
FAR Part
135
Engines
1
Damage
DEST
Conditions
Light
DAYL
Weather
VMC
Probable cause
The pilot's improper planning/decision in attempting a downwind takeoff under high density altitude conditions that resulted in a loss of control and impact with terrain. Contributing to the accident were the helicopter's gross weight in excess of the maximum hover out of ground effect limit, a high density altitude, and the gusty tailwind.