26 Jun 2012: SCHWEIZER(HUGHES)AIRCRAFT CORP TH55A/269A — Lowry Flying Service

26 Jun 2012: SCHWEIZER(HUGHES)AIRCRAFT CORP TH55A/269A — Lowry Flying Service

No fatalities • Grinnell, IA, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the wind during a hovering maneuver, which resulted in a loss of tail rotor effectiveness and directional control.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot and his passenger were returning to the airport after a local flight. In preparation to land, the pilot approached a grassy area adjacent to the runway and entered a hover into a 12 knot wind. The wind was also gusting to 16 knots. The pilot then made a right pedal turn downwind. He said that during the turn, the wind caught the tail and the helicopter began to spin. The pilot did not have enough left pedal to stop turning and the tailrotor struck a fence and the main rotor blades hit the ground. A review of photographs taken of the helicopter after the accident revealed the tail rotor blades, main rotor blades, and fuselage were substantially damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions prior to the accident.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • cause Response/compensation

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 130/12kt

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