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.
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.