Pilot Debrief

AIRBUS HELICOPTERS DEUTSCHLAND EC135T3 near Dodge Center, MN — 2023-11-22

Final reportCEN24LA053
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Date
2023-11-22
Location
Dodge Center, MN, USA
Aircraft
AIRBUS HELICOPTERS DEUTSCHLAND EC135T3
Registration
N423NM
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

An in-flight collision with a flock of birds.

NTSB narrative

During a dark night flight in visual meteorological conditions, an emergency medical services helicopter collided with a flock of birds about 1,100 ft above ground level. The impact shattered the windscreen and caused what the pilot described as an explosion. Despite the damage, the pilot was able to stabilize the helicopter and head towards the nearest airport, about 7.5 miles away. The helicopter landed without further incident. A post-accident examination revealed substantial damage to the main rotor blades in the pitch control cuff area and the monocoque structure of the fantail.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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