Casualties unknown

Helicopter Tail Rotor Strikes FBO Individual During Post-Landing (N28908)

Chinook, MT, US

On January 15, 1993, a Hiller UH-12E (registration N28908) operated by Dept OF Interior was involved in an aviation accident near Chinook, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INATTENTIVE FBO PERSONNEL. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After landing, while rotors were winding down, a helicopter pilot and passenger exited to remove baggage. An FBO employee walked toward the helicopter and was struck by the tail rotor despite a warning.

Incident Overview

A helicopter pilot reported that he had landed the aircraft near the fuel pumps, as previously agreed upon with FBO personnel. As the main and tail rotors were winding down, the pilot and a passenger exited the helicopter and began removing baggage.

Sequence of Events

During this time, an individual from the FBO exited a nearby hangar and was following a pathway in the snow toward the administration building and the helicopter. The pilot called out to the individual to caution him about the tail rotor. However, the individual continued walking and was struck by the tail rotor.

Additional Details

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, time of day, weather conditions, or the extent of any injuries sustained by the individual. No ATC involvement is mentioned. The incident occurred while the helicopter was on the ground with rotors still slowing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Jan 1993 Hiller UH-12E accident near Chinook, MT?

After landing, while rotors were winding down, a helicopter pilot and passenger exited to remove baggage. An FBO employee walked toward the helicopter and was struck by the tail rotor despite a warning.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Jan 1993 involved a Hiller UH-12E, registration N28908, operated by Dept OF Interior, at Chinook, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

INATTENTIVE FBO PERSONNEL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11754. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.