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Helicopter crashes after tail rotor strikes power lines during approach (N1040Z)

Princeton, MO, US

On March 15, 1985, a Hughes 369HS (registration N1040Z) operated by Kcmo Radio was involved in an aviation accident near Princeton, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during the approach, which resulted in a collision with the tail rotor. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter collided with power lines while approaching an open field, causing severe vibration and loss of control before impacting the ground.

What happened

The accident occurred when a helicopter's tail rotor struck power lines during an approach to an open field. According to the pilot, as the aircraft descended onto the field, it began to vibrate severely. This vibration caused the pilot to lose control of the helicopter. The aircraft then executed two 360-degree revolutions, with the nose swinging to the right, before contacting the ground and coming to rest on its left side.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the mechanical interaction between the helicopter and the power lines. The primary finding was the physical contact between the tail rotor and the overhead wires during the descent phase of the flight.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during the approach, which resulted in a collision with the tail rotor.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Mar 1985 Hughes 369HS accident near Princeton, MO?

A helicopter collided with power lines while approaching an open field, causing severe vibration and loss of control before impacting the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Mar 1985 involved a Hughes 369HS, registration N1040Z, operated by Kcmo Radio, at Princeton, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during the approach, which resulted in a collision with the tail rotor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36017. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.