Pilot Debrief

HUGHES 369 near Honiara, PO — 2008-12-28

Final reportWPR09LA069
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Date
2008-12-28
Location
Honiara, PO, SB
Aircraft
HUGHES 369
Registration
N104BN
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to remove the tail rotor pedal lock before attempting flight, resulting in a loss of control.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter was being operated from a fishing vessel in open ocean waters. A witness, who was the mechanic for the helicopter, reported that the pilot forgot to remove the tail rotor pedal lock before takeoff. The helicopter lifted off and began to spin. The mechanic saw the pilot "trying to grab the pedal lock;" however, the pilot was unsuccessful. The helicopter impacted the water, the fixed floats separated, and the helicopter sank.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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