Casualties unknown

1992-06-14: Enstrom F28A (N159Q) — Bacca, James A. — Hanford, CA

Hanford, CA, US

On June 14, 1992, an Enstrom F28A (registration N159Q) operated by Bacca, James A. was involved in an aviation accident near Hanford, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ROTOR RPM DURING THE TAKEOFF. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: THE PILOT'S LACK OF FAMILIARITY WITH THE AIRCRAFT AND UNFAVORABLE WINDS THAT EXISTED AT THE TIME OF TAKEOFF. 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 with three occupants lost engine and main rotor RPM shortly after takeoff from a fair ground. The pilot attempted a landing in a parking lot, but the helicopter turned right and rolled forward onto its nose after skid contact.

Incident Overview

According to the official investigation source, a helicopter was preparing for departure from a fair ground. Three individuals, whose combined weight was estimated at 300 pounds, boarded the aircraft. The pilot initiated takeoff under conditions that included a right quartering tail wind blowing at 9 to 14 knots.

Sequence of Events

As the helicopter climbed to an altitude of approximately 30 to 40 feet above ground level, the engine and main rotor RPM began to decrease. In response, the pilot made an attempt to land in a parking lot directly ahead of his position. Upon touchdown, the helicopter's skids contacted the ground, and the aircraft turned right. It then continued forward, rolling onto its nose.

Investigation Details

The source does not specify additional details regarding the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, precise location, occupant identities, injuries, or damage extent. No further causal analysis or contributing factors are provided in the source material.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14904. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.