On August 7, 1991, a Mcdonnell Douglas 269A (registration N48298) operated by Jims Agri Air was involved in an aviation accident near Harvard, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot stated that he did not pay sufficient attention to the flight, was preoccupied, and failed to maintain rotor rpm. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an agricultural spray operation, the pilot pulled up and reversed direction. Noticing a drop in rotor rpm, his corrective action caused a rapid descent, ground impact, and rollover. The pilot acknowledged preoccupation and insufficient attention.
Accident Overview
During a spray pass, the pilot of the helicopter executed a pull-up and a turn to reverse direction. He observed a decrease in rotor rpm. In response, his remedial action led to what he described as "an immediate and rapid rate of descent...the helicopter hit the ground...turned to the right and rolled over."
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he did not give sufficient attention to the flight. He reported that he was preoccupied and failed to maintain rotor speed. He further indicated that his preoccupation led to the loss of rotor rpm.
Probable Cause
According to the pilot, the accident occurred because he did not pay sufficient attention to the flight, was preoccupied, and did not maintain rotor speed.