The Robinson R22 pilot reported that, while maneuvering at a low altitude over a field near Homestead, Florida, he looked down at his phone in the cockpit.
By the time he looked back outside, the helicopter’s left skid had hit the ground. Subsequently, the helicopter rolled onto its left side.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, tailboom, and rotor systems.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable cause: The pilot’s diverted attention to his phone while maneuvering at a low altitude, which resulted in collision with terrain.
NTSB Identification: GAA18CA113
This January 2018 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
I don’t attend to my cell in the car so I would never change my policy as POC
Does this indicate that the mobile phone has replaced the radio as the most important item in the aircraft?
Maybe another take off and landing checklist item should be to put phone away or put in airplane mode.
What would GranPaw Pettibone say?
This occurrence is no different than driving a car. Maybe the pilot should have just pitched up and distance himself from the terrain.
Stupid