Pilot Debrief

BELL HH-1H near Reno, NV — 2022-06-02

Final reportWPR22LA205
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Date
2022-06-02
Location
Reno, NV, USA
Aircraft
BELL HH-1H
Registration
N91JK
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of control following the inadvertent placement of his foot behind the anti-torque pedal.

NTSB narrative

The two pilots were practicing pinnacle landings and takeoffs on a hilltop. The pilot in command (PIC) in the right seat was performing a takeoff when the helicopter encountered a wind gust that resulted in a right yaw. The PIC applied left anti-torque pedal to arrest the yaw when his left heel slipped off the front end of the footrest. His foot became wedged between the pedal and footrest, which resulted in an uncontrollable left spin. The PIC reduced collective, and the helicopter landed hard. The landing skids collapsed on landing, substantially damaging the fuselage and tail. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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