SIKORSKY S76 near New Iberia, LA — 2018-02-18

Probable cause

The helicopter’s striking of a pothole while taxiing, which resulted in the right main landing gear collapsing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while the copilot was taxiing the wheel-equipped helicopter to the runway for departure, he saw a "bump" on the concrete. The copilot reported that he attempted to stop before the "bump," which turned out to be a pothole, but the helicopter struck the pothole with the right main landing gear, which collapsed. The pilot and the copilot both reported that the taxi speed was less than 5 knots. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the internal fuselage structure. The Director of Operations reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Landing gear collapse · Taxi-into takeoff position

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Co-Pilot Statementinterview
• Pilot Statementinterview
• Accident Photosphotos

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