FTW96LA378

The weather was 'hot, very humid, with no wind,' and during the attempted takeoff from the transport trailer, the helicopter 'couldn't get any lift.' The helicopter descended and impacted the terrain separating the tailboom. The pilot did not calculate the weight and balance, nor determine the performance data for the existing conditions. The weight of the helicopter at the time of the accident was estimated at 1,384.8 pounds, and the density altitude was approximately 2,400 feet. The maximum gross weight of the helicopter was 1,370 pounds. According to the manufacturer's performance charts, with the helicopter at the above weight and density altitude, it was not capable of hovering out of ground effect.

On September 6, 1996, at 1545 central daylight time, a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, N80750, registered to a private owner and operated by Acadiana Helicopters under Title 14 CFR Part 137, impacted terrain during takeoff near Loreauville, Louisiana. The commercial pilot was not injured, and the helicopter received substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local aerial application flight and a flight plan was not filed. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot reported in the NTSB Form 6120.1/2 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report that the weather was "hot and humid, with little to no breeze," and during the attempted takeoff from the transport trailer, the helicopter descended, "hit the ground, the main rotor blades flexed down and cut the tail off." The pilot also reported that the helicopter "couldn't get any lift."

The pilot reported to the FAA inspector that he did not calculate the weight and balance, nor do any performance planning. He also reported he did not know the height above the ground or what the rotor RPM and manifold pressure indicated prior to takeoff.

Weight and balance and performance calculations were performed using figures provided by the manufacturer. The weight of the helicopter at the time of the accident was estimated at 1,384.8 pounds. The maximum gross weight of the helicopter was 1,370 pounds. According to aircraft performance charts, with the density altitude of 2,400 feet, at the gross weight of 1,384.8 pounds, the helicopter was not capable of hovering out of ground effect.