On July 20, 1986, a Hughes 369D (registration N1109T) 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.
A helicopter's tail boom and aft skids struck the ground during quick stop maneuvers, bending the tail boom and breaking both skids. Pilot reported a loud bang and spin; FAA found no mechanical failure.
Accident Details
According to the official source, a helicopter was involved in an accident while the pilot was instructing the co-pilot in quick stop maneuvers. During the descent, the helicopter's tail boom and aft skids struck the ground. The tail boom was bent approximately 2 feet forward of the tail rotor gear box, and both aft skids were broken.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he was in a stationary hover when he heard a loud bang. This bang caused the helicopter to spin and subsequently collide with the ground.
FAA Investigation
However, the FAA inspector at the scene of the accident stated that they were practicing quick stops. The inspector reported that he could find no evidence of any mechanical failure.