On May 18, 2002, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N3894Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Salem, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to loss of tail rotor effectiveness in gusty wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter struck trees and terrain shortly after lifting off from a high-altitude helipad. The pilot reported losing tail rotor effectiveness amidst gusty winds, resulting in an accident 300 feet from the departure point.
What happened
The aircraft was attempting to lift off from a steel helipad situated at an elevation of 8,800 feet mean sea level. As the helicopter began its ascent and initiated a right turn, the pilot applied left pedal input to counteract torque. Despite these controls, the aircraft failed to maintain directional control and struck nearby trees before impacting the terrain approximately 300 feet from the helipad.
The investigation
Following the accident, an FAA inspector interviewed the pilot to determine the sequence of events. The pilot reported that he experienced a sudden loss of tail rotor effectiveness. He further noted that gusty winds were present in the area at the time of the incident, which likely contributed to the control difficulties encountered during the critical takeoff phase.
Findings
The accident occurred during the initial climb and turn phase. The combination of high density altitude and turbulent wind conditions appears to have exceeded the helicopter's ability to maintain heading with available pedal authority. The loss of tail rotor effectiveness was identified as the primary factor leading to the collision with trees and subsequent terrain impact.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to loss of tail rotor effectiveness in gusty wind conditions.