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Helicopter Retrieval Mission Ends in Rollover After Low Rotor RPM Warning (N279F)

Volcano, HI, US

On September 4, 1994, a Hughes 369E (registration N279F) was involved in an aviation accident near Volcano, HI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain adequate main rotor rpm and the resultant inadvertent skid contact with the ground. 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

A helicopter dispatched to retrieve stranded passengers from a sightseeing tour experienced a low rotor RPM annunciator during lift-off, pivoted right, struck a ridge with its left skid, and rolled over. All occupants remained overnight until rescue.

Sequence of Events

A sightseeing tour helicopter carrying four passengers encountered instrument meteorological conditions along its route of flight. The pilot landed at 7,500 feet mean sea level to wait for the weather to clear. During the landing, passengers heard and observed the low rotor RPM annunciator. After the weather cleared, a low battery prevented the engine from starting.

A second helicopter, the accident aircraft, with a pilot and a mechanic was dispatched to retrieve the passengers. During lift-off, the passengers again heard and observed the low rotor RPM annunciator. The helicopter's nose pivoted about 45 degrees to the right as the aircraft departed downslope. The helicopter's left landing gear skid struck a small ridge, and the aircraft rolled over.

Aftermath

Both the sightseeing tour helicopter and the accident helicopter, along with all occupants, remained overnight until rescue the following day.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Sept 1994 Hughes 369E accident near Volcano, HI?

A helicopter dispatched to retrieve stranded passengers from a sightseeing tour experienced a low rotor RPM annunciator during lift-off, pivoted right, struck a ridge with its left skid, and rolled over. All occupants remained overnight until rescue.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Sept 1994 Hughes 369E accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Sept 1994 involved a Hughes 369E, registration N279F, at Volcano, HI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain adequate main rotor rpm and the resultant inadvertent skid contact with the ground.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02283. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.