Casualties unknown

Helicopter Rolls Over During Hover Autorotation Practice (N58208)

Tampa, FL, US

On March 26, 1985, a Hughes 269C (registration N58208) was involved in an aviation accident near Tampa, 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a taxi/hover autorotation practice, the student over-controlled with the right anti-torque pedal, causing the helicopter to settle left skid-first into soft turf. The instructor was unable to correct, and the helicopter rolled over.

Incident Details

A helicopter was being used for training purposes involving a taxi/hover autorotation maneuver. The student pilot was at the controls, with a certified flight instructor (CFI) present.

Sequence of Events

During the practice, the helicopter settled onto a soft area of turf. The student pilot over-controlled with the right anti-torque pedal, resulting in the helicopter settling onto its left skid. The CFI attempted remedial action but was unable to overpower the student's input. After touchdown, the left skid sank into the soft terrain, causing the helicopter to roll over.

Findings

The helicopter rolled over after the left skid sank into the soft ground. No further details were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36001. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.