What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-10-17 involved a Bell 206L-1, registration N303CH, at Edinburg, TX.

Helicopter Encounter with Loss of Tailrotor Effectiveness on Final Approach (N303CH)

On October 17, 2002, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N303CH) was involved in an aviation accident near Edinburg, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of tailrotor effectiveness due to the right quartering tailwind, which resulted in a hard landing. Factors were the lack of suitable surrounding terrain for landing, which included numerous surrounding obstacles, and the tailwind. 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 1781061362Data API Editorial standards

A helicopter experienced a loss of tailrotor effectiveness during final approach, causing a right spin and hard landing. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction, and wind conditions were consistent with the event.

Scenario

A helicopter was on final approach to a staging area, heading south, when the pilot encountered a loss of tailrotor effectiveness. According to the pilot, approximately 20 feet above ground level, he "ran out of pedal" and the helicopter began spinning to the right. Despite applying full left pedal, the rate of turn continued to increase.

Pilot Actions

The pilot attempted to gain forward airspeed but was unable to do so due to surrounding obstacles. Subsequently, the helicopter made a hard landing and came to rest upright. The pilot stated that there was no mechanical malfunction of the helicopter.

Wind Conditions

The nearest weather observation facility reported wind from 150 degrees at 13 knots. The pilot reported the wind as from 120 degrees at 12 knots.

Outcome

The helicopter landed hard. The article is based on the pilot's account and the official source, which does not specify injuries or aircraft damage details beyond the hard landing.

2002-10-17: Bell 206L-1 (N303CH) — Edinburg, TX