Pilot Debrief

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELICOPTER 369E near New Smyrna Beach, FL — 2015-09-03

Final reportERA15LA337
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Date
2015-09-03
Location
New Smyrna Beach, FL, USA
Aircraft
MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELICOPTER 369E
Registration
N16056
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate visual lookout and failure to maintain clearance from trees while maneuvering at low altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he had just finished spraying one field and was making a 270-degree right turn to line up with a second field. During the turn, the pilot glanced over his left shoulder to select a visual reference point upon which to line up the helicopter after completing the turn. The pilot looked forward again, and the trees lining the fields were immediately in front of him. He attempted to climb the helicopter by applying power but was unable to avoid the trees. The pilot stated that there was no mechanical malfunction or abnormality with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided the turn or maintained better situational awareness.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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