Low altitude operation/event: Robinson R44 Clipper II, N916VK, accident occurred on January 29, 2026, near Sullivan, Missouri

 

• Location: Sullivan, Missouri 
• Accident Number: CEN26LA101 
• Date & Time: January 29, 2026, 13:00 Local 
• Registration: N916VK 
• Aircraft: ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II 
• Aircraft Damage: Destroyed 
• Defining Event: Low altitude operation/event 
• Injuries: 2 Minor, 2 None 
• Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Aerial observation

https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-repgen/api/Aviation/ReportMain/GenerateNewestReport/202365/pdf

https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket?ProjectID=202365

The pilot stated while conducting a wildlife survey the helicopter contacted and severed a powerline which resulted in the separation of the main rotor system at the rotor mast. The fuselage and tail boom came to rest inverted and submerged in a river. The pilot stated there were no issues with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations.

- Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from powerlines during low-level operations.