Robinson Helicopter Company controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2018
Mast-bumping litigation and reporting
A United States lawsuit alleged defective manufacturing after an R66 helicopter experienced an in-flight breakup in an event said to involve mast bumping. Press coverage also examined whether Robinson helicopters had an elevated susceptibility to such accidents. The available reference does not provide the lawsuit’s final disposition.
2016
Mast-bumping accidents and safety scrutiny
A New Zealand Transport Accident Investigation Commission report reviewed 14 mast-bumping accidents or incidents involving Robinson helicopters in New Zealand and recorded 18 deaths. The report described semirigid, two-bladed rotor systems of the type used on Robinson helicopters as particularly susceptible to mast bumping in low-G conditions. The issue led to continuing scrutiny of design characteristics, pilot training, operational limitations, and safety communication.