What happened
On June 25, 2025, at approximately 10:01 MDT, an MD Helicopters 369E, registration N411WJ, was involved in an accident near Meeker, Colorado. The flight was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
While the airport manager at Meeker Coulter Field Airport (EEO) did not observe the helicopter's departure, he noted that the helicopter dolly was positioned outside the pilot's hangar. Following an inquiry from the pilot's wife, a search involving two airplanes was initiated. The wreckage was located on the morning of June 26, 2025.
ADS-B data indicates the helicopter completed two circuits of the EEO traffic pattern. During its third pass, the aircraft departed on the downwind leg and climbed toward the northeast. Approximately 5 miles from the airport, the aircraft entered a shallow 180-degree left turn while climbing to a maximum altitude of 10,350 feet MSL. After completing the turn, the helicopter was heading back toward the airport and began a descent. The final recorded ADS-B data point showed the aircraft at 7,950 feet MSL, traveling at approximately 87 knots, about 1 mile northeast of the accident site.
The investigation
Examination of the accident site showed the helicopter impacted rocky, hilly terrain. The aircraft came to rest on its right side at an elevation of 6,842 feet MSL, approximately 200 feet southwest of the initial ground scar. The tail rotor assembly and a two-foot section of the tailboom had separated from the main fuselage and were located at the first ground scar. Debris fragments were found along the path between the fuselage and the tail rotor assembly. The aircraft was subsequently moved to a secure facility for further examination.
Findings
- The pilot sustained 1 fatal injury.