BELL OH-58A near Ft. Pierce, FL — 2011-05-29

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to recognize and avoid a loss of tail rotor effectiveness, which resulted in a loss of control and hard landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was maneuvering the helicopter at low altitude during a search mission. After completing a low level, slow speed, right turn, the helicopter experienced a nose dip and began to spin. The pilot took corrective actions in an attempt to stop the spinning, but the actions failed, and the helicopter impacted the ground hard. No preimpact mechanical irregularities were noted with the helicopter during the wreckage examination. The pilot stated that he was more focused on the mission than on flying the helicopter and was caught off guard when the uncommanded right yaw started. He reported that he lost awareness of the wind condition and did not recognize the possibility of a loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE) event. As a result of the accident, the helicopter operator implemented additional training and awareness courses and required their pilots to complete mission-oriented emergency procedures flight training and specific training on LTE prevention, onset, and recovery.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Loss of control

First missed decision gate

Pilot did not recognize the possibility for a LTE situation during the right turn.

NTSB coding

• Loss of tail rotor effectiveness · Maneuvering-low-alt flying

Evidence available

• Photos
• 13 docket documents

Docket documents13

• Miscellaneous: NTSB Supplement Report, Helicopter Operational Information Study.form
• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Miscellaneous: Pilot's Statement to FAA Inspector.interview
• Reports from Federal Agencies: Federal Aviation Administration Inspector's Statementinterview
• Maintenance Records - Excerptsother
• Miscellaneous: Safety Results Communication.other
• Record of Conversationother
• Photo 1 (Aircraft at rest) Courtesy of the FAAphotos
• Photo 2 (Aircraft at Rest and Scattered Debris) Courtesy of the FAAphotos
• Photo 3 (Helicopter Damage) Courtesy of the FAAphotos
• Photo 4 (Rear View of Damage) Courtesy of the FAA.photos
• Reports from Local Agencies: St. Lucie County sheriff's Officereport
• Weather Reports and Recordsreport

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