Pilot Debrief

Hughes TH 55 near Keene, NH — 2019-03-13

Final reportGAA19CA168
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Date
2019-03-13
Location
Keene, NH, USA
Airport
EEN
Aircraft
Hughes TH 55
Registration
N8045H
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The helicopter’s collision with a bird during cruise flight.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that, while en route, about 2 miles northeast from his destination airport and about 500 ft above ground level and 60 knots, he heard a loud "thud" from a possible bird strike, and the upper right windscreen/canopy shattered, with pieces going into the main rotor disc and cabin. He continued to the airport and landed without further incident. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades. 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
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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