Casualties unknown

Helicopter Experiences Dynamic Rollover on Soft Sod Area (N301MG)

Landrum, SC, US

On July 9, 2005, a Schweizer 269C-1 (registration N301MG) was involved in an aviation accident near Landrum, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper use of the flight controls (collective pitch and cylic controls) during a take off to a hover resulting in the helicopter encountering dynamic roll over and rolling over on its right side. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter rolled onto its right side after encountering dynamic rollover during takeoff from a wet, soft sod area adjacent to runway 32.

Incident Summary

A helicopter accident occurred during takeoff from a sod area adjacent to runway 32. The helicopter rolled over onto its right side after experiencing dynamic rollover.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported that he made an approach to the sod area and was unaware that the ground was wet and soft. During takeoff to a hover, he applied collective pitch abruptly. As a result, the left skid became airborne while the right skid remained on the ground. The helicopter then encountered dynamic rollover before the pilot could apply collective pitch and lateral cyclic. The helicopter subsequently rolled over on its right side.

Aircraft Condition

The pilot stated that there were no anomalies with the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly, or accessories.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050816X01249. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.