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Casualties unknown

Helicopter crashes into lake during landing approach (N4029Z)

Greeleyville, SC, US

On March 25, 1993, a Hiller UH12E (registration N4029Z) operated by H And M Aircraft Leasing was involved in an aviation accident near Greeleyville, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of landing altitude and approach, which led to tail rotor contact with the water surface and subsequent loss of directional control. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter crashed into a lake after the tail rotor contacted the water surface during a flared landing approach over the water adjacent to the pilot's residence.

What happened

The pilot was conducting a landing approach toward an empty field located next to his house. The flight path required crossing over a body of water to reach the landing zone. As the helicopter descended and flared for landing while still over the lake, the tail rotor struck the water surface. This contact resulted in a loss of directional control, causing the aircraft to crash into the lake.

The investigation

During the post-accident review, the pilot provided an explanation for the incident. He stated that he had misjudged both his landing altitude and his approach path. No other mechanical failures or external factors were cited as contributing to the loss of control.

Probable cause

The pilot's misjudgment of landing altitude and approach, which led to tail rotor contact with the water surface and subsequent loss of directional control.
Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Mar 1993 Hiller UH12E accident near Greeleyville, SC?

A helicopter crashed into a lake after the tail rotor contacted the water surface during a flared landing approach over the water adjacent to the pilot's residence.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Mar 1993 involved a Hiller UH12E, registration N4029Z, operated by H And M Aircraft Leasing, at Greeleyville, SC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's misjudgment of landing altitude and approach, which led to tail rotor contact with the water surface and subsequent loss of directional control.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11911. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.