Night Helicopter Crash Near San Diego, Texas (N15SX)

Incident Overview and Pilot Intentions A helicopter was being operated at night in an area where the temperature and dew point were 64 degrees Fahrenheit. The pilot landed several miles west of San Diego, Texas, and stated that the landing was made because of fog and to ask for directions to another town. The pilot intended to deliver birds for a hunt scheduled for the next day. ## Local Assistance and Departure After landing, the pilot was given directions to another town. He was also told that he could leave the helicopter at that location, and that the birds could be taken to town to wait for someone to drive in and pick them up. Despite this option, the pilot said he believed he could continue to the next town. The helicopter then departed, but it did not arrive at the next town. ## Crash Reports and Search Efforts Hunters reported hearing a crash seven miles west of the departure point. A search was initiated, but after two and a half hours, the search was stopped because of dense fog. The wreckage was found the next day, approximately nine miles west of San Diego, Texas. ## Investigation Findings The investigation found no pre-impact mechanical problems.