On August 10, 1994, an Enstrom F-28A (registration N292Q) operated by Merril Kearney was involved in an aviation accident near Bangor, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of aircraft control. Factors are dark night conditions, and the pilot's execution of an evasive maneuver. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter collided with trees during night cruise after the pilot performed an evasive maneuver to avoid a fast-moving light, losing control and impacting wooded terrain.
Circumstances
A helicopter collided with terrain during a night cruise over wooded terrain. The pilot described the conditions as having 'no ground light or cellestial lights.' During the flight, the pilot noticed a fast 'moving light coming from my left to right at what appeared to be my altitude.' To avoid a potential collision, the pilot executed an evasive maneuver. However, during this maneuver, he lost control of the helicopter, which subsequently collided with underlying trees.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter. The evasive action was taken in response to the perceived threat of the moving light. The loss of control occurred as a direct result of the maneuver, leading to the collision with the terrain.
What happened in the 10 Aug 1994 Enstrom F-28A accident near Bangor, ME?
A helicopter collided with trees during night cruise after the pilot performed an evasive maneuver to avoid a fast-moving light, losing control and impacting wooded terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Aug 1994 involved an Enstrom F-28A, registration N292Q, operated by Merril Kearney, at Bangor, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's loss of aircraft control. Factors are dark night conditions, and the pilot's execution of an evasive maneuver.
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