MICHAEL R ALEXANDER MOSQUITO XE
Iron Station, NC — May 2, 2018
Event Information
| Date | May 2, 2018 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA18CA250 |
| Event ID | 20180502X24152 |
| Location | Iron Station, NC |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 35.44000, -81.12000 |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | MICHAEL R ALEXANDER |
| Model | MOSQUITO XE |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | DEST |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The noncertificated pilot’s decision to practice hovering the helicopter in a confined space, which resulted in the tail rotor striking a tree.
Full Narrative
The noncertificated pilot reported that, while practicing hovering the helicopter in his yard, the experimental amateur-built helicopter struck a tree with the tail rotor. He added that, the next thing he knew the helicopter developed "a huge vibration suddenly and [he] had no heading control". Subsequently, the helicopter impacted the ground.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. The helicopter was destroyed by a post-crash fire.
The pilot reported in the NTSB Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report form (6120.1) that he should have taken more dual instruction, and he should have chosen a more open area for hover practice.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.