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Casualties unknown

Pilot Without Helicopter Rating Maneuvers Aircraft Before Collision with Terrain (N26HW)

Lino Lakes, MN, US

On April 13, 2003, an Enstrom F-28A (registration N26HW) was involved in an aviation accident near Lino Lakes, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot not maintaining aircraft control while manuevering. 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 pilot not rated for helicopters performed multiple approaches and hovers; on the final attempt the aircraft accelerated toward the ground and collided with terrain. No mechanical malfunction was reported, and the pilot's last FAA medical exam was in 1991.

Accident Details

A pilot who was not rated to fly helicopters was maneuvering an aircraft when it descended and impacted the terrain. According to the pilot's statement on the NTSB accident form, they had conducted several approaches and hovers. During the final approach, the pilot reported that the aircraft seemed to accelerate with power toward the ground. The pilot also stated that there was no mechanical malfunction or failure.

Pilot Information

The pilot held no helicopter rating. Federal Aviation Administration records indicate that the pilot's last aviation medical examination was performed on September 25, 1991. No other pilot qualifications or flight experience details were provided in the investigation report.

Loss of control in flight

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030415X00511. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.