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Helicopter Rotor Strike During Shipboard Takeoff Attempt (N74AM)

Pacific Ocean, PO, US

On October 6, 2004, a Hughes 369HS (registration N74AM) was involved in an aviation accident near Pacific Ocean, PO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to release the left tie-down strap before attempting takeoff, which led to an uncontrolled roll and subsequent structural damage from rotor contact. 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 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter sustained severe damage when its tail boom was severed by main rotor blades during a takeoff attempt from a fishing vessel, caused by the pilot failing to release a tie-down strap.

What happened

The incident occurred while a helicopter was attempting to depart from a fishing vessel located on the high seas. The pilot initiated the takeoff sequence but failed to ensure that all ground restraints were removed prior to applying power. Specifically, the left tie-down strap remained attached to the helicopter's landing gear during the ascent.

As the aircraft attempted to lift off, the residual tension from the unreleased tie-down caused the helicopter to roll violently onto its side. This uncontrolled lateral movement resulted in the main rotor blades striking the tail boom. The impact was severe enough to sever the tail boom completely and destroy the main rotor blades.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to release the left tie-down strap before attempting takeoff, which led to an uncontrolled roll and subsequent structural damage from rotor contact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Oct 2004 Hughes 369HS accident near Pacific Ocean, PO?

A helicopter sustained severe damage when its tail boom was severed by main rotor blades during a takeoff attempt from a fishing vessel, caused by the pilot failing to release a tie-down strap.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Oct 2004 involved a Hughes 369HS, registration N74AM, at Pacific Ocean, PO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to release the left tie-down strap before attempting takeoff, which led to an uncontrolled roll and subsequent structural damage from rotor contact.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041108X01786. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.