Helicopter pilot reported a NMAC with a UAS during cruise flight and took evasive action to avoid a possible collision.

Date: 2024-03 · Aircraft: Helicopter · Phase: cruise

Anomalies: airspace-violation-all-types|conflict-nmac|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-published-material-policy|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-far|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-unauthorized-flight-operations-uas

Synopsis

Helicopter pilot reported a NMAC with a UAS during cruise flight and took evasive action to avoid a possible collision.

Narrative

Observed what appeared to be stationary UAS at approximately 1;100 ft. MSL (29.95 in hg) approximately 1 nm on the 045 radial from VPDOW intersection on LA West Helicopter Chart (VPDOW is approximately at the 5 fwy and 605 fwy interchange in southern california; los angeles)I was PIC of a VMC helicopter; outbound approximately 045 radial from VPDOW intersection between 1100 ft. and 1200 ft. MSL given latest ATIS from LGB. I recall to have been 29.95 in hg. Observed UAS approximate size of 3ft x 3ft x 1.5 ft. UAS appeared to be configured with four rotors with one attached at each corner of the UAS. UAS appeared stationary.Initial observation of UAS estimated to be at 300 ft. away at 1:30 oclock [position] same level.I recall making slight left correction to create diverging course. observed UAS over right shoulder continued to appear stationary. Attempted to keep UAS in visual over shoulder until lost; continued on flight no further impact.Estimated closest approach between UAS and helicopter to be approximately 250 ft horizontal; same altitude.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.