Casualties unknown

Helicopter Hard Landing After Unauthorized Flight with Alcohol Consumption (N9588F)

Wingate, NC, US

On June 9, 1985, a Hughes 269C (registration N9588F) was involved in an aviation accident near Wingate, NC. 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 rolled onto its side during landing after the pilot and passenger consumed beer before a 15-minute unauthorized flight. The passenger reported the right skid contacted the ground, causing a roll.

Incident Overview

A helicopter experienced a hard landing during which the right skid contacted the ground, causing the aircraft to roll onto its right side. The flight, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, was conducted in a local area.

Circumstances

According to a report, the pilot and a passenger consumed several beers shortly before boarding the helicopter. The passenger later stated that during the landing, the right skid touched the ground, leading to the helicopter rolling to the right.

Authorization Status

The owner of the helicopter reported that the pilot had been employed on a part-time basis to provide flight instruction. However, the owner emphasized that the pilot was not authorized to take the helicopter on this particular flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36672. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.