BELL OH-58C
Livingston, NY — May 14, 2020
Event Information
| Date | May 14, 2020 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | ERA20CA184 |
| Event ID | 20200514X71849 |
| Location | Livingston, NY |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 42.16806, -73.81277 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | BELL |
| Model | OH-58C |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | NDRK |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain obstacle clearance while maneuvering at low altitude at night, which resulted in the helicopter striking a tree.
Full Narrative
The pilot of a helicopter reported that while maneuvering at low altitude, about 150 ft above the ground at night, the helicopter struck a tree. Subsequently, the helicopter started spinning to the right, impacted terrain, and rolled onto its left side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail-boom and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
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.