What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-05-13 involved an Enstrom 280C, registration N122HA, at Newark, DE.

Helicopter Accident During Hover Taxi Turn (N122HA)

On May 13, 1995, an Enstrom 280C (registration N122HA) was involved in an aviation accident near Newark, DE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper use of throttle and collective controls, resulting in the loss of rotor rpm and the inflight loss of control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot performed a steep approach, hovered over high vegetation, then during a right 90-degree turn to a helipad, the helicopter entered 360-degree spins, landed in brush, and rolled onto its left side.

Accident Details

A pilot conducted a steep approach and came to a hover over an area of high vegetation. Subsequently, she initiated a right 90-degree turn to hover taxi toward the helipad. According to the pilot, the helicopter 'went into 360 degree spins in a matter of seconds,' after which it landed in brush and rolled onto its left side.

Pilot Statement

The pilot informed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that during the turn to the helipad, she neglected to add throttle before pulling up on the collective (power). She noticed that the rotor RPM was low and could not make a recovery.

Mechanical Examination

The pilot did not report any mechanical problems with the helicopter. An examination found no discrepancies with the helicopter or its engine.

Pilot Experience

At the time of the accident, the pilot's total flight hours were 107.5, all of which were in the same make and model of helicopter. Of those, 26.7 hours were logged as pilot-in-command.

1995-05-13: Enstrom 280C (N122HA) — Newark, DE