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Helicopter Tail Rotor Strikes Terrain During Downwind Landing on Downslope (N141MK)

Honolulu, HI, US

On July 7, 2002, an Aerospatiale AS350 BA (registration N141MK) was involved in an aviation accident near Honolulu, HI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain adequate tail rotor clearance from the sloping terrain in unfavorable wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter's tail rotor contacted terrain during a downwind landing on downsloping terrain, resulting in a destroyed gear box and bent tail boom. Passengers reported a hard landing after clearing a fence.

Accident Details

According to witness accounts from passengers, the helicopter passed over a 6-foot fence before settling hard onto dirt during the approach to landing. The touchdown occurred on downsloping terrain, and the tail rotor subsequently collided with the upslope.

Pilot Statement

The pilot informed an FAA inspector that he intentionally chose to land downhill, believing that would provide the best angle for executing a landing within the confined operational zone. The pilot noted that the downwind conditions caused the tail of the helicopter to sit lower than normal.

Damage

During the touchdown, the tail boom made contact with the terrain, resulting in a 30-degree bend. The gear box was destroyed as a consequence of the impact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jul 2002 Aerospatiale AS350 BA accident near Honolulu, HI?

A helicopter's tail rotor contacted terrain during a downwind landing on downsloping terrain, resulting in a destroyed gear box and bent tail boom. Passengers reported a hard landing after clearing a fence.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Jul 2002 Aerospatiale AS350 BA accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jul 2002 involved an Aerospatiale AS350 BA, registration N141MK, at Honolulu, HI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain adequate tail rotor clearance from the sloping terrain in unfavorable wind conditions.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020712X01107. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.