Hughes 269A
Lincoln, NE — April 27, 2008
Event Information
| Date | April 27, 2008 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | DFW08CA120 |
| Event ID | 20080508X00627 |
| Location | Lincoln, NE |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 40.85056, -96.75555 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | Hughes |
| Model | 269A |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to properly execute a steep approach, which resulted in a tail strike and a loss of control.
Full Narrative
The 35-year-old commercial rated pilot was practicing a steep approach in a single-engine helicopter, when she flared too low to the ground and the tail rotor struck the ground. Subsequently, the tail rotor drive shaft failed and the pilot was unable to maintain control of the helicopter. The rear portion of the right skid contacted the ground and the helicopter rolled over on to its side. Examination of the helicopter revealed it sustained substantial damage to the mast, tail boom, and the right skid was torn from the fuselage.
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.