Casualties unknown

2003-07-28: Hughes 269C (N171FF) — Silverhawk Aviation Inc — Melba, ID

Melba, ID, US

On July 28, 2003, a Hughes 269C (registration N171FF) operated by Silverhawk Aviation Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Melba, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter due to his failure to maintain rotor rpm. Factors contributing to the accident were the corn crop, and the pilot's abrupt maneuver to avoid obstacles. 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 APIEditorial standards

A helicopter pilot misjudged distance from wires during a climbing right pedal turn while approaching a field. Corrective maneuvers led to right skid impact with corn, ground impact, and the helicopter coming to rest on its left side.

Initial Flight Conditions

A helicopter pilot was approaching the north end of a field from the south. The helicopter was flying approximately 2 feet above the corn stalks at a speed of 30 knots.

Maneuver and Misjudgment

The pilot initiated a climbing right pedal turn. After progressing through approximately 30 to 40 degrees of the turn, the pilot misjudged the distance from wires that bordered the field.

Pilot Actions and Helicopter Response

The pilot stopped the pedal turn and applied right forward cyclic. As the helicopter began to sink, the pilot applied forward cyclic and additional throttle to gain airspeed and minimize the descent. Subsequently, the pilot applied aft cyclic and collective in an attempt to halt the descent. However, the helicopter's right skid impacted the corn, causing it to veer to the right. The helicopter then struck the ground and came to rest on its left side.

The source provides no further details about the helicopter, pilot, or environment.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030731X01246. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.