On June 21, 1990, a Hughes 369HS (registration N4428F) operated by Conquest Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Randle, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT FAILED TO COMPENSATE FOR THE WIND CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A sightseeing helicopter landed hard after being caught by a wind gust near power lines. The pilot applied power to clear the lines but the aircraft landed hard in a field. No mechanical issues were reported.
Incident Overview
At the conclusion of a sightseeing flight, the pilot initiated an approach to the landing zone. Conditions at the time included a tail wind and gusting winds reaching 30 knots. As the helicopter descended to approximately 20-30 feet above ground level, a gust of wind caused the aircraft to veer off course. The helicopter then skimmed over power lines located in close proximity to the landing zone.
Pilot Response and Landing
In response to the deviation, the pilot applied power. The helicopter subsequently gained 20-30 feet of altitude and continued forward. It then landed hard in an open field. No mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter were reported at the time of the accident.
Conditions and Outcomes
The wind conditions during the approach were characterized by gusts of 30 knots and a tail wind component. The helicopter contacted the ground firmly in the field after clearing the power lines. The report does not specify any injuries or damage to the aircraft beyond the hard landing itself.