Helicopter crash during student pilot solo flight practice

Casualties unknown • Laurel, MT, US

A student pilot lost control of a helicopter during takeoff practice, resulting in an uncontrolled descent and ground impact.

What happened

During a flight involving takeoff and landing practice, a student pilot was performing the second takeoff of their first solo flight. During this maneuver, the pilot applied excessive collective input, causing the helicopter to climb to an altitude of approximately 12 feet AGL.

This sudden change in pitch led to a decay in rotor RPM and a subsequent loss of tail rotor effectiveness. The aircraft began to yaw to the right, and the pilot was unable to recover control as the helicopter continued to spin while ascending to about 50 feet AGL. After completing two to three full 360-degree revolutions, the helicopter entered an uncontrolled descent and struck the ground. The not injured pilot landed the aircraft on its left side. No mechanical malfunctions or difficulties were reported prior to the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's application of excessive collective input during takeoff, which caused a decay in rotor RPM and loss of tail rotor effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-09-27 Hughes 269B accident near Laurel, MT?

A student pilot lost control of a helicopter during takeoff practice, resulting in an uncontrolled descent and ground impact.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-09-27 involved a Hughes 269B, registration N9503F, at Laurel, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's application of excessive collective input during takeoff, which caused a decay in rotor RPM and loss of tail rotor effectiveness.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22086. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…