What happened
On April 6, 2025, at approximately 10:20 EDT, a Hiller UH-12E, registration N48263, was involved in an accident near Rockledge, Florida. The helicopter was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
According to FAA ADS-B data and pilot statements, the pilot had performed a left turn and was traveling southwest at a barometric altitude of 600 feet. The aircraft maintained an indicated airspeed between 68 and 70 knots until approximately 10:19:48, when the pilot reported feeling a deceleration. Following this, the helicopter turned to the right and began traveling in a northerly direction.
The pilot reported having no memory of the events following the right turn. However, witness video captured the helicopter yawing left and right around its vertical axis while performing a vertical descent. Before the aircraft disappeared behind trees, it was observed yawing slightly to the left. The video also recorded the sound of the engine and rotors during the descent.
The helicopter impacted the infield of a baseball field and came to rest on its right side. At the scene, fuel leakage was observed. The pilot and passenger both sustained 2 serious injuries.