On July 9, 1988, a Hughes 369D (registration N1089D) was involved in an aviation accident near Kitoi Bay, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter rolled onto its left side after the left skid caught a survey stake protruding 6 inches from the ground during liftoff. The pilot reported the lateral trim motor had failed, requiring 35 pounds of right cyclic pressure in a hover.
Accident Description
A helicopter landed with its left skid against a survey stake that protruded approximately 6 inches from the ground. During the subsequent liftoff, the skid did not clear the metal stake before the helicopter began moving laterally to the left. The left skid remained against the stake, causing the helicopter to roll over onto its left side.
Pilot Statement
After the accident, the pilot stated that the lateral trim motor had failed. While in a hover, this failure required 35 pounds of pressure to the right against the cyclic control to maintain position.
Ground Conditions
The survey stake was made of metal and protruded from the ground. No other ground conditions were reported.
Aircraft Damage
The helicopter sustained damage consistent with rolling onto its left side. Specific damage items were not detailed in the report.