Helicopter Accident Investigation

Rotorcraft fail differently than fixed-wing aircraft. Drive train continuity, main and tail rotor system integrity, mast bumping, loss of tail rotor effectiveness, and autorotation entry each leave distinct physical evidence, and each requires familiarity with the specific type to read correctly.

Areas of Analysis

•    Main rotor and tail rotor system examination, including blade strike and rotational energy signatures

•          Drive train continuity and failure sequence determination

•          Rotorcraft crash dynamics and impact attitude reconstruction

•          Loss of control, mast bumping, and low-G condition analysis

•          Evaluation of rotorcraft maintenance records, component times, and life-limited parts

•          Flight control rigging, actuator, and servo examination

•          Turbine and reciprocating powerplant assessment

Type Experience

Mr. Rexwinkle completed the Robinson Helicopter Company factory maintenance training course for R22 and R44 series helicopters, covering main rotor and flight controls, drive train, tail rotor and tail rotor controls, actuator bearings, and main rotor hub servicing. He has additionally maintained the Bell 206 Jet Ranger III and completed Pratt & Whitney Canada general familiarization training for the PW206 and PW207 engine series.

His casework spans a broad range of civil and military rotorcraft, including the Bell 407, Eurocopter EC135, Eurocopter AS350, Boeing AH-6, UH-1H, and Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk.

Mr. Rexwinkle has investigated more than 300 aviation mishaps involving both fixed-wing aircraft and rotorcraft since 2008, and has authored over 100 expert reports and technical memoranda. He has testified in deposition and at trial and accepts engagements from both plaintiff and defense counsel nationwide.

Experience

Mr. Rexwinkle has investigated more than 300 aviation mishaps involving fixed-wing aircraft and rotorcraft since 2008, with particular focus on midair collision and loss-of-control sequences. He has testified in deposition and at trial and accepts engagements from both plaintiff and defense counsel nationwide.

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