Fatal Accident (2) – Robinson R44 Raven II, N144SG, about 18nm W of Uvalde, TX, February 27, 2025
ASX Investigation | ||||
On February 27, 2025, a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter registered as N144SG crashed near the Kinney County and Uvalde County line in Southwest Texas. The aircraft, operated by Holt Helicopters, was conducting an aerial survey over Harris Ranch when the incident occurred. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the crash took place at approximately 1:20 p.m., and first responders arrived on the scene around 2:45 p.m. The crash site was located on private property along U.S. Highway 90, about 12 miles west of Uvalde. The helicopter was engaged in a routine aerial wildlife survey, a common practice in the region. According to Kinney County Judge John Paul Schuster, the pilot, a resident of Uvalde, and a passenger from Florida were the only occupants on board. The passenger was reportedly visiting as part of an annual trip with friends, with plans that included surveying game in coordination with the ranch manager. Neither of the individuals survived the impact. Initial assessments by the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) suggest that the crash occurred under circumstances that are still under investigation. The weather conditions at the time of the crash have not yet been disclosed as a contributing factor. Witnesses and local authorities noted that the helicopter went down without any apparent distress signals being reported before impact. The NTSB has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. A preliminary report was expected to be released by February 28, 2025, outlining initial findings related to potential mechanical failures, operational factors, and environmental conditions at the time of the crash. Investigators will likely analyze flight logs, maintenance records, and pilot history to assess any anomalies that may have contributed to the incident. Authorities confirmed that the helicopter was owned and operated by Holt Helicopters, a company based approximately 20 minutes from the crash site. Holt Helicopters is known for conducting aerial wildlife surveys and other commercial operations. The experience level of the pilot has been described as significant, making the crash an unexpected event for those familiar with the operation. Despite the severity of the crash, no ground casualties were reported, as the helicopter came down in an unpopulated area. The wreckage was secured by local law enforcement, and FAA representatives began documentation of the debris field to assist in the reconstruction of the event. The findings will contribute to safety recommendations and potential regulatory updates to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The broader implications of this crash highlight the inherent risks associated with low-altitude aviation operations, particularly those conducted for game surveys. The investigation will consider whether flight conditions, mechanical issues, or human factors played a role. The final report will likely address whether new safety measures need to be implemented for similar aerial survey missions. As the FAA and NTSB continue their examination, further details will emerge regarding the specific chain of events that led to the accident. The findings from this incident will be critical in enhancing the safety protocols for Robinson R44 operations and ensuring that future flights maintain the highest safety standards. | ||||
Accident Information | ||||
Approx. Accident Location | Aircraft Fatalities 2 | Ground Fatalities 0 | Injured 0 |  |
Aircraft Information | ||||
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