2001-05-28: Hughes 269C — John C. Mayer — Fairfield, KY

Casualties unknown • Fairfield, KY, US

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate visual lookout during takeoff, and his inadequate reconnoiter of the area prior to takeoff.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

According to the pilot, he initially overflew the field, and looked for power lines and transmission poles. He noticed one pole, but his attention was diverted, and didn't notice any other poles or power lines. The pilot made his approach, brought the helicopter into a hover, and hovered for about 1 minute. The pilot then looked for obstacles in his departure path, but didn't see any. He initiated the takeoff, and during the departure, the helicopter struck a power line. The pilot then performed an autorotation to the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-05-28 Hughes 269C accident near Fairfield, KY?

According to the pilot, he initially overflew the field, and looked for power lines and transmission poles. He noticed one pole, but his attention was diverted, and didn't notice any other poles or power lines. The pilot made his approach, brought the helicopter into a hover, and hovered for about 1 minute. The pilot…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-05-28 involved a Hughes 269C, registration N9660F, operated by John C. Mayer, at Fairfield, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate visual lookout during takeoff, and his inadequate reconnoiter of the area prior to takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010601X01057. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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