Helicopter Tail Rotor Failure Due to Line Entanglement During Of…

Helicopter Tail Rotor Failure Due to Line Entanglement During Off-Site Landing

Casualties unknown • Cody, WY, US

A helicopter suffered a tail rotor drive shaft failure after its long-line became entangled in brush and the rotating components, leading to a controlled impact with ground equipment.

What happened

The pilot was conducting an off-site landing operation utilizing a long-line configuration. During the approach and landing sequence, the suspended line became entangled in nearby brush. As the aircraft continued its descent, the entangled line subsequently wrapped around the tail rotor drive shaft. This mechanical interference caused the tail rotor drive shaft to fail catastrophically.

Following the failure, the pilot initiated an autorotation to maintain control of the aircraft. The helicopter impacted equipment located on the ground. The collision resulted in significant structural damage, including a bent tail boom and horizontal stabilizer. Additionally, the bottom of the helicopter's fuselage was penetrated during the impact.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance between the long-line and obstacles, which led to entanglement with the tail rotor drive shaft and subsequent mechanical failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-08-12 Eurocopter AS350 B-2 accident near Cody, WY?

A helicopter suffered a tail rotor drive shaft failure after its long-line became entangled in brush and the rotating components, leading to a controlled impact with ground equipment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-08-12 involved a Eurocopter AS350 B-2, registration C-FBTW, at Cody, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance between the long-line and obstacles, which led to entanglement with the tail rotor drive shaft and subsequent mechanical failure.

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