On July 10, 2001, a Sikorsky SK-76A (registration N164AG) was involved in an aviation accident near New Iberia, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the loss of control while maneuvering for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a positioning flight in an S-76 helicopter, the pilot conducted an auto rotation RPM check, leading to a loss of control and violent shaking. Post-flight inspection revealed cracks in all four main rotor blades and damage to spindle assemblies.
Incident Description
During a cross country positioning flight in an S-76 model helicopter, the pilot observed that the in-flight ride was "a little rougher" than in other S-76 helicopters he had flown. He decided to perform an auto rotation RPM check. After disengaging the autopilot, he lowered the collective and retarded the throttles to idle. Subsequently, the nose of the helicopter "pitched up and snapped to the left to a vertical descent." The pilot then advanced the throttles, and the aircraft began to shake "violently." Following this, the pilot recovered "full control" and proceeded to land.
Post-Flight Inspection
After landing, a post-flight inspection revealed damage to the main rotor blades and hub. Further inspection of the hub and blades showed that all four blades had cracks located approximately 1 foot outboard of the blade root seals. Additionally, all four spindle assemblies and flap restrainers were damaged. No impact damage was observed on the hub or blades.
What happened in the 10 Jul 2001 Sikorsky SK-76A accident near New Iberia, LA?
During a positioning flight in an S-76 helicopter, the pilot conducted an auto rotation RPM check, leading to a loss of control and violent shaking. Post-flight inspection revealed cracks in all four main rotor blades and damage to spindle assemblies.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Jul 2001 involved a Sikorsky SK-76A, registration N164AG, at New Iberia, LA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the loss of control while maneuvering for undetermined reasons.
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