27 Apr 2008: Hughes 269A — Chandra Clanton

27 Apr 2008: Hughes 269A — Chandra Clanton

No fatalities • Lincoln, NE, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to properly execute a steep approach, which resulted in a tail strike and a loss of control.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The 35-year-old commercial rated pilot was practicing a steep approach in a single-engine helicopter, when she flared too low to the ground and the tail rotor struck the ground. Subsequently, the tail rotor drive shaft failed and the pilot was unable to maintain control of the helicopter. The rear portion of the right skid contacted the ground and the helicopter rolled over on to its side. Examination of the helicopter revealed it sustained substantial damage to the mast, tail boom, and the right skid was torn from the fuselage.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC

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