ENSTROM F28C

Full Narrative

On February 2, 2026, at about 1301 mountain standard time, an Enstrom F-28C helicopter, registration N5692Y, was substantially damaged near Leeds, Utah. The pilot was seriously injured and the passenger sustained minor injuries. At the time of the accident, the helicopter was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight
Witnesses observed the pilot attempting to take off from his driveway for a local flight. The helicopter lifted off the ground to a hover, which the witnesses described as “unstable,” prompting the pilot to land. Witnesses heard an increase in main rotor RPM followed by a near vertical climb. Upon reaching about 80 feet above ground level, the helicopter suddenly descended, struck a tree with its tail rotor and subsequently impacted the ground with the main rotor blades. The helicopter came to rest on its left side about 40 feet from its departure point. During the accident sequence, the main rotor, tail rotor, landing gear and fuselage were substantially damaged.
The pilot reported that he did not have sufficient power to maintain altitude and lost control of the helicopter.
The helicopter was recovered to a secure location for further examination.