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Helicopter Main Rotor Strikes Tail Boom During Run-on Landing Practice (N64580)

Chino, CA, US

On September 2, 2003, a Bell 47D1 (registration N64580) was involved in an aviation accident near Chino, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the student pilot's inappropriate remedial action through the application of excessive aft cyclic during a run-on landing. A factor in the accident was the student's disregard for company procedures. 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

While practicing a run-on landing, a student pilot touched down on the skid heels, causing the helicopter to rock forward. The pilot's cyclic input led to main rotor contact with the tail boom.

Incident Details

During a training flight, a student pilot was practicing a run-on landing maneuver. The pilot touched down on the heels of the skids, causing the helicopter to rock forward. In response, the pilot pulled back on the cyclic control. This action resulted in the main rotor blades making contact with the tail boom. No mechanical problems were identified with the helicopter.

Pilot Experience

The student pilot had accumulated approximately 58 total flight hours in helicopters, with 7 hours as pilot-in-command. According to the operator, students were not authorized to practice run-on landings during solo flight.

Operational Context

The incident occurred while the pilot was under instruction. The operator's policy prohibited solo practice of run-on landings, indicating that the maneuver was intended to be performed only under direct supervision.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Sept 2003 Bell 47D1 accident near Chino, CA?

While practicing a run-on landing, a student pilot touched down on the skid heels, causing the helicopter to rock forward. The pilot's cyclic input led to main rotor contact with the tail boom.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Sept 2003 Bell 47D1 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Sept 2003 involved a Bell 47D1, registration N64580, at Chino, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the student pilot's inappropriate remedial action through the application of excessive aft cyclic during a run-on landing. A factor in the accident was the student's disregard for company procedures.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031009X01701. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.