Pilot Debrief

HUGHES 369D near Henryetta, OK — 2011-02-23

Final reportCEN11LA200
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Date
2011-02-23
Location
Henryetta, OK, USA
Aircraft
HUGHES 369D
Registration
N112AS
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

Failure of the cyclic control system for reasons undetermined.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter was facing into the wind and hovering, with an external load, over an open field adjacent to the work area. The pilot made a 180-degree right pedal turn to enter the work area, approximately 120 feet above the ground. While trimming for the left quartering tailwind, he heard a loud "pop" and felt a "thump" in his seat. He was unable move the cyclic control to the left, and the helicopter started a right banking turn. The helicopter rolled sharply to the right and impacted the ground. A postaccident examination of the helicopter revealed no discrepancies. Flight control continuity was established from the cockpit to the flight controls. When the flight controls were manipulated, no obstructions or binding were noted.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided the left quartering tailwind maneuver.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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