NTSB: Pilot's texting contributed to copter crash

[cbrer]

3. When auto-pilot and auto-hover are factored in,

Physical input becomes less of a factor.

*However* Even if this pilot had those controls, there's no disputing the "pilot error" conclusion for this tragedy.

What wasn't mentioned was the pilots reaction to the "low fuel" annunciator. It is impossible to miss. And it seems unlikely that the pilot would ignore it- if only in terms of self preservation. He/she's got time to set it down if he/she actually run's the thing out of fuel. And if the pilot is competent with autorotation, a controlled touchdown should be even more probable.

Damn shame.