On October 28, 1996, a Hughes 369 (registration N9251F) operated by Ironrange Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Vestaburg, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to maintain clearance with the wires. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter's rotor blades struck power lines while being relocated after a Christmas tree delivery. Witnesses reported no abnormal engine noises and saw the pilot duck before impact. No airframe or engine abnormalities were found.
Incident Overview
A helicopter, which had just completed a Christmas tree delivery, struck power lines while being relocated from the north side of a field to the south side. The rotor blades made contact with the wires during the short repositioning flight.
Witness Accounts
One witness reported hearing no abnormal engine noises from the helicopter before the accident. Another witness stated that the pilot appeared to duck just before the helicopter contacted the wires.
Investigation Findings
An on-scene investigation of the airframe and engine did not reveal any abnormalities. No further details regarding the cause of the contact were provided in the official source.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 28 Oct 1996 Hughes 369 accident near Vestaburg, MI?
A helicopter's rotor blades struck power lines while being relocated after a Christmas tree delivery. Witnesses reported no abnormal engine noises and saw the pilot duck before impact. No airframe or engine abnormalities were found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Oct 1996 involved a Hughes 369, registration N9251F, operated by Ironrange Aviation, at Vestaburg, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
failure of the pilot to maintain clearance with the wires.
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