Casualties unknown

Helicopter Crashes in High-Speed Descent While Circling for Landing (N8995F)

Houston, TX, US

On July 20, 1983, a Hughes 269C (registration N8995F) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter crashed in a high-speed descent with a nose-low left bank attitude while circling at 600 ft MSL awaiting landing clearance. The pilot in command reported observing low rotor RPM before impact; engine and rotors were not operating at impact but were functional prior.

Accident Overview

A helicopter crashed during a high-speed descent while in a slight nose-low and left bank attitude. The aircraft had been circling at an altitude of approximately 600 feet MSL, awaiting clearance to land.

Pilot Account

The pilot in command (PIC), who was seated in the left seat and was not flying the aircraft at the time, reported that he felt no yaw or change in sound. He stated that suddenly the ground was coming up and he thought he observed low rotor RPM. The next thing he remembers is being on the ground on his back in pain.

Wreckage Examination

Examination of the wreckage confirmed that neither the engine nor the rotors were operating at impact. However, investigation revealed that the engine and all of its accessories were capable of normal operation prior to ground impact.

Investigation Findings

No probable cause was determined from the available information.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43732. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.