On May 16, 1994, a Schweizer 269C (registration N160CA) operated by Cangemi, Richard S. was involved in an aviation accident near Hiram, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during flight in instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter struck trees and terrain shortly after departing a residential helipad when the pilot encountered rolling fog that severely limited visibility.
What happened
The pilot reported that the accident sequence began immediately following takeoff from a private helipad situated at his residence. As the aircraft climbed, it entered an area of dense, rolling fog. The pilot noted that visibility deteriorated rapidly, dropping below the minimum requirements for visual flight rules operations.
In response to the sudden loss of external reference points, the pilot attempted to slow the descent rate in an effort to land safely. However, the maneuver was unsuccessful. The aircraft collided with nearby trees before striking the ground terrain.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during flight in instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.