On September 30, 1987, an Enstrom F-28A (registration N29GC) was involved in an aviation accident near Mansfield, OH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced an uncommanded right turn and left roll while hover-taxiing away from a hangar, then impacted terrain and came to rest on its left side. Post-crash examination found no pre-existing mechanical failure. Wind conditions and hangar turbulence were noted.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that the helicopter made an uncommanded turn to the right and rolled to the left as she was hover-taxiing away from the hangar toward the takeoff area. The aircraft subsequently impacted the terrain and came to rest on its left side.
Post-Crash Examination
Post-crash examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of pre-existing mechanical failure or malfunction.
Weather and Environmental Factors
Investigation revealed that the wind at the time was blowing from 320 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 22 knots. The helicopter's liftoff point was on the downwind side of the hangar.
The FAA Basic Helicopter Handbook AC61-13B notes that turbulence is likely to be found near the ground on the downwind side of buildings whenever the wind velocity exceeds 10 mph (8.7 knots).