What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1984-06-02 involved a Hiller UH-12E, registration N109EH, at Sigel, PA.

Helicopter Tail Rotor Problem Leads to Hard Landing and Tail Boom Separation (N109EH)

On June 2, 1984, a Hiller UH-12E (registration N109EH) was involved in an aviation accident near Sigel, PA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During an aerial application flight, a pilot encountered a tail rotor problem and extended the glide to an open area. A hard landing resulted in main rotor blades striking and severing the tail boom. Investigation found the pilot had declined refueling before the last takeoff.

Introduction

A helicopter was conducting an aerial application flight over a wooded area when a tail rotor problem occurred. The pilot reported that the problem made it necessary to extend the glide to reach an open area. The helicopter subsequently landed hard, causing the main rotor blades to strike and sever the tail boom.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, the tail rotor issue developed during the flight. To compensate, the pilot extended the glide path to a clear area. The landing was hard, and the main rotor blades contacted the tail boom, resulting in its separation from the helicopter.

Accident Sequence

During the aerial application operation, the pilot encountered a tail rotor malfunction. An extended glide was performed to reach an open area. Upon touchdown, the impact forces caused the main rotor blades to hit the tail boom, cutting it off.

Investigation Findings

The investigation revealed that the pilot had declined to refuel the helicopter before the last takeoff. Additionally, witnesses reported that fuel was added to the tanks after the accident, prior to the arrival of the investigator.

1984-06-02: Hiller UH-12E (N109EH) — Sigel, PA