# NTSB Accident ERA09FA417
> **ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44** · 2009-07-24 · Boonsboro, MD, USA · FATL
## Event
- **NTSB number:** ERA09FA417
- **Event ID:** 20090724X05537
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 2009-07-24
- **Location:** Boonsboro, MD, USA
- **Coordinates:** 39.541389, -77.606391
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** FATL
- **Fatal:** 4
- **Serious:** 0
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 0
- **Total aboard:** 4
## Aircraft
- **Make:** ROBINSON HELICOPTER
- **Model:** R44
- **Registration:** N7189W
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 1
- **Damage:** SUBS
## Conditions
- **Light:** NDRK
- **Weather:** VMC
## Probable cause

The pilot’s improper decision to depart on a visual flight rules (VFR) flight at night in adverse weather conditions in close proximity to rising mountainous terrain in a helicopter that was only certified to be operated under VFR and his subsequent failure to maintain adequate clearance with wires.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=ERA09FA417) · MORVS · CC0 1.0*