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Helicopter Rolls Over During Ferry Flight to New Smyrna Beach (N278Q)

New Smyrna Bch, FL, US

On January 10, 1983, an Enstrom F-28A (registration N278Q) was involved in an aviation accident near New Smyrna Bch, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A newly purchased helicopter on a ferry flight to Maryland rolled over after losing rotor RPM during a pedal turn at New Smyrna Beach, Florida. The pilot reported wind from 020° at 10 knots gusting 15 knots.

Incident Details

A helicopter being ferried to Maryland made its first planned stop at New Smyrna Beach, Florida. The pilot executed a landing approach to Runway 2. After coming to a hover, the helicopter lost rotor RPM during a pedal turn to a downwind heading. An immediate application of power failed to prevent the right skid from contacting the ground, and the helicopter rolled over onto its side.

Reported Conditions

The pilot reported that the wind had swung the tailboom to the left before rotor RPM was lost. The pilot stated the wind was from 020° at 10 knots, gusting to 15 knots. At Daytona Beach, Florida (15 miles north-northwest), the wind at 1347 EST was from 350° at 6 knots.

Aftermath

The helicopter sustained damage during the rollover. No further details were provided regarding occupants or injuries.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Jan 1983 Enstrom F-28A accident near New Smyrna Bch, FL?

A newly purchased helicopter on a ferry flight to Maryland rolled over after losing rotor RPM during a pedal turn at New Smyrna Beach, Florida. The pilot reported wind from 020° at 10 knots gusting 15 knots.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Jan 1983 involved an Enstrom F-28A, registration N278Q, at New Smyrna Bch, FL.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42052. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.