Robinson R44 crash near Sakha Republic, Russia

On August 14, 2015, about 1055 coordinated universal time, a Robinson R-44, Russian Registration RA-04339, was substantially damaged after impacting a light pole shortly after departure from a mountainous landing area in the Sakha Republic, in the Russian Federation. The pilot was fatally injured and the two passengers sustained injuries. The flight was conducted under Russian flight regulations. According to preliminary information from the Interstate Aviation Committee, the flight departed from the landing area, the helicopter began a left turn, impacted a light pole about 6 meters in height, and subsequently impacted the ground. The helicopter then rolled onto its right side and a postimpact fire ensued. The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Interstate Aviation Committee. Further information can be obtained from: Interstate Aviation Committee 22/2/1 Bolshaya Ordynka Street Moscow, 119017, Russia Telephone: +7 (495) 953-12-44 Fax: +7 (495) 953-35-08 This report is for informational purposes and contains only information released by the Interstate Aviation Committee.