ERA26LA031

Factual narrative

On November 04, 2025, at about 1400 eastern standard time, an amateur built experimental Rotorway 162F, N162RW, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Athens, Tennessee. The commercial pilot received minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. According to the pilot, the pre-flight and runup of the helicopter were normal with no anomalies observed. The pilot then departed the McMinn County Airport (MMI), Athens, Tennessee, for a local flight. After completing the flight, the pilot began his approach to MMI. The pilot reported that as he began to raise the collective to slow the helicopter for touchdown, the helicopter began a left turn. He attempted to arrest the turn using the right anti-torque pedal; however, there was no response despite full right pedal input. The pilot further stated that the helicopter began to drift from his intended landing position. The skids contacted the grass and the helicopter subsequently rolled onto its left side. After the helicopter rolled over, a post-impact fire ensued, consuming most of the helicopter. The wreckage was retained for further examination. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12