Casualties unknown

1991-05-26: Hughes 269A (N7033H) — James D. Lee — Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs, CA, US

On May 26, 1991, a Hughes 269A (registration N7033H) operated by James D. Lee was involved in an aviation accident near Palm Springs, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE BY THE UNQUALIFIED PERSON AT THE CONTROLS; IMPROPER USE OF ROTORCRAFT FLIGHT CONTROLS BY AN UNQUALIFIED PERSON. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE FENCE. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter pilot reported losing control due to wind while hovering, leading to a main rotor blade strike on a fence, an uncontrolled descent, and a rollover. The pilot stated he did not possess a current pilot or medical certificate, and FAA records showed no certificate ever issued.

Accident Details

A helicopter accident occurred at Palm Springs Regional Airport when the pilot lost control while hovering. According to the pilot's written statement, he attributed the loss of control to the wind. The winds reported by the airport control tower at the time were from 340 degrees at 10 miles per hour.

During the incident, the helicopter's main rotor blade struck a fence. After the blade strike, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent and rolled over upon ground contact.

Pilot Certification

In his written statement, the pilot said, "I can not furnish a copy of a current pilot or medical certificate, since I have none." A review of Federal Aviation Administration records revealed no record of a pilot certificate or medical certificate ever being issued to the pilot.

The investigation did not provide information on the helicopter's make, model, registration, or the operator. No details regarding the number of occupants, injuries, or the extent of damage were included in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17052. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.