Helicopter control stiffness during training landing leads to ground impact

Casualties unknown • Mesa, AZ, US

A flight instructor and trainee were involved in a helicopter accident during a simulated hydraulics-off landing maneuver when the aircraft controls became stiff.

What happened

A flight instructor was conducting training for a new-hire pilot to prepare for a 14 CFR Part 135 check ride. An additional new-hire pilot was present in the rear seat as an observer. The training session involved performing a hydraulics-off, run-on landing.

As the trainee approached the touchdown point, the instructor advised the pilot to maintain sufficient airspeed. Just before touchdown, the pilot reported that the aircraft controls became extremely stiff. In response, the instructor directed the trainee to re-engage the hydraulics isolation switch located on the collective control. Although the student re-engaged the hydraulics, the controls remained stiff, and the pilot experienced difficulty applying forward cyclic.

When the instructor took control of the aircraft, the helicopter began a slow turn to the left. As the instructor attempted to correct this movement, the rate of the turn increased. The helicopter subsequently impacted the ground while in a left turn with rear lateral movement, resulting in the collapse of the landing gear skids. There were no injuries reported in the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-05-11 Eurocopter AS350B2 accident near Mesa, AZ?

A flight instructor and trainee were involved in a helicopter accident during a simulated hydraulics-off landing maneuver when the aircraft controls became stiff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-05-11 involved a Eurocopter AS350B2, registration N851HW, operated by Rocky Mountain Helicopters, at Mesa, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the instructor pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21041. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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