Pilot Debrief

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELICOPTER 369E near Delta Junction, AK — 2021-09-07

Final reportANC21LA083
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Date
2021-09-07
Location
Delta Junction, AK, USA
Aircraft
MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELICOPTER 369E
Registration
N125KW
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inability to maintain lateral control during the takeoff, which resulted in dynamic rollover. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s decision to utilize an unsuitable landing area for flight operations.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was transporting personnel from a remote helipad that was constructed of a plastic, floating dock. She was unaware that the helicopter’s right skid had slid under a portion of the plastic dock. As she raised the collective to depart, she felt the helicopter roll to the right, and she attempted to correct the lateral rolling motion by lowering the collective. The helicopter continued to roll and came to rest on its right side. Subsequently, the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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