Casualties unknown

Helicopter Descends into Lake During Hover-to-Forward Transition (N10MY)

Tarpon Springs, FL, US

On May 18, 1991, a Hughes 269C (registration N10MY) operated by M.y. Flying Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Tarpon Springs, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: DELAY BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND TO APPLY ADEQUATE THROTTLE & COLLECTIVE DURING TRANSITION OFF A DOCK FOR A TAKEOFF OVER A LAKE. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS HIS LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE IN THE TYPE OPERATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter descended into a lake while transitioning from a hover to forward flight. The pilot rolled the helicopter on its side to stop the rotor blades, and both occupants exited the aircraft. The engine was later tested and operated normally.

Accident Sequence

The pilot raised the helicopter to a height of 3 feet above a dock, holding a steady hover. As the aircraft began transitioning to forward flight over a lake, it unexpectedly started to descend. The pilot stated that he pulled the collective control and applied additional throttle in an attempt to stop the descent, but the skids made contact with the water.

Post-Accident Actions

After contacting the water, the pilot rolled the helicopter onto its right side to stop the main rotor blades. Both occupants then exited the aircraft. Following the accident, the engine was started and was found to operate normally.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17078. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.