Pilot Debrief

SCHWEIZER 269C near Katy, TX — 2011-07-03

Final reportCEN11CA442
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Date
2011-07-03
Location
Katy, TX, USA
Aircraft
SCHWEIZER 269C
Registration
N72DC
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate rotor rpm during a low-altitude maneuvering flight.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, during an aerial application flight, the helicopter pilot was flying between 6 and 7 feet above the ground, at an airspeed of 20 knots. While maneuvering, the pilot encountered a low rotor rpm situation and the helicopter started to settle. As soon as the helicopter descended, the landing skid became tangled in the rice plants, and the helicopter came to rest on its side. During the collision with terrain, the tail boom and main rotor separated from the fuselage. An examination of the helicopter and its systems revealed no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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