Helicopter rolls onto side during acceptance flight test

Casualties unknown • Elmira, NY, US

A helicopter involved in an aircraft acceptance flight test rolled onto its side during a practice touchdown autorotation, resulting in no injuries.

What happened

A helicopter was conducting a new aircraft acceptance flight test with two pilots on board. The crew was practicing a touchdown autorotation maneuver. During the procedure, both the pilot in the left seat (representing the purchaser) and the pilot in the right seat (the company pilot designated as pilot in command) were operating the controls simultaneously.

The aircraft touched down with a right drift and the right skid positioned lower than the left. Upon contact with the ground, the helicopter rolled to the right and came to rest on its side. The occupants were not injured.

Findings

The investigation identified that no specific procedures for the transfer of control between the two pilots had been established prior to takeoff. Additionally, it was noted that the left seat pilot had not performed touchdown autorotations in this specific type of helicopter for 13 months.

Probable cause

The lack of established procedures for the transfer of control between the two pilots during the maneuver and the aircraft touching down with a right drift and uneven skid height.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-12-18 Schweizer 269C accident near Elmira, NY?

A helicopter involved in an aircraft acceptance flight test rolled onto its side during a practice touchdown autorotation, resulting in no injuries.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-12-18 involved a Schweizer 269C, registration N6129Q, operated by Schweizer Aircraft Corp, at Elmira, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The lack of established procedures for the transfer of control between the two pilots during the maneuver and the aircraft touching down with a right drift and uneven skid height.

Loading the flight search…