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Helicopter Impacts Water During Fish Herding Flight (N521ZZ)

Pacific Ocean, PO, US

On January 24, 1998, a Hughes 369D (registration N521ZZ) was involved in an aviation accident near Pacific Ocean, PO. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot erred in controlling the helicopter. 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 conducting an aerial observation to herd fish crashed into the water after turning downwind and descending into a tailwind. The pilot admitted control error before dying.

Accident Overview

During a fish herding operation, a helicopter took off from a ship with a pilot and observer aboard. The pilot climbed to approximately 400 feet and spotted fish. He then executed a downwind turn and initiated a descent into a prevailing 15-knot tailwind. Neither the turn nor the descent was arrested. The helicopter's heading changed by 180 degrees, and the descent continued until the helicopter struck the water. The aircraft sank and was not recovered.

Pilot Statement

Before his death, the pilot reported that no engine problems had been experienced. He indicated that he had erred in controlling the helicopter.

Probable cause

The pilot erred in controlling the helicopter.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jan 1998 Hughes 369D accident near Pacific Ocean, PO?

A helicopter conducting an aerial observation to herd fish crashed into the water after turning downwind and descending into a tailwind. The pilot admitted control error before dying.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Jan 1998 Hughes 369D accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jan 1998 involved a Hughes 369D, registration N521ZZ, at Pacific Ocean, PO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot erred in controlling the helicopter.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09469. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.