Pilot Debrief

HUGHES TH 55A near Hudson, WI — 2014-06-10

Final reportCEN14LA537
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Date
2014-06-10
Location
Hudson, WI, USA
Aircraft
HUGHES TH 55A
Registration
N5335U
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The nonhelicopter-rated pilot’s operation of the helicopter and its subsequent collision with trees during takeoff for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.

NTSB narrative

The passenger reported that the airline transport pilot, who was not helicopter-rated, took off in the helicopter with the intention of conducting a cross-country flight. Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power, and the helicopter then descended into trees. The helicopter was subsequently moved back to the owner's repair station, and the wreckage was later discovered during routine surveillance of the station by the Federal Aviation Administration; the engine was not examined. The pilot did not report the accident and stated that there was no intent for flight when the helicopter was damaged.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff after engine power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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