Pilot Debrief

Eurocopter EC135 near Cobleskill, NY — 2019-06-17

Final reportGAA19CA405
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Date
2019-06-17
Location
Cobleskill, NY, USA
Aircraft
Eurocopter EC135
Registration
N135WJ
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain situational awareness during takeoff from a confined area, which resulted in the helicopter rotors striking tree branches.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter operator reported that, during takeoff, the pilot allowed the helicopter to drift aft during a pedal turn, which resulted in the main rotor blades impacting tree branches that outlined the confined area of the landing zone. The pilot completed the remainder of the flight without incident. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the antitorque gear box. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident 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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