2001-08-21: Hughes 269C — Tucumcari, NM

Casualties unknown • Tucumcari, NM, US

Probable cause

failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain adequate terrain clearance. Contributing factors were the unsuccessful low altitude flight maneuver, and the high density altitude weather conditions.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot stated that he flew for approximately one hour looking for stray cattle on his ranch. He was continuing his search on a mesa ridge when he noticed that the helicopter was losing altitude. The main rotor blades bean impacted 10 to 15 foot high cedars, and the helicopter rolled to the right and impacted the ground. The density altitude was calculated to be approximately 7,938 feet, and the out of ground effect hover capability of the helicopter with these weather conditions was calculated to be 5,200 feet.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-08-21 Hughes 269C accident near Tucumcari, NM?

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-08-21 involved a Hughes 269C, registration N502AA, at Tucumcari, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain adequate terrain clearance. Contributing factors were the unsuccessful low altitude flight maneuver, and the high density altitude weather conditions.

Loading the flight search…