Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN09CA290

Brookeland, TX, USA

Aircraft #1

N602DB

BOLTON RICKY D ROTORWAY E

Analysis

Same as Factual Information

Factual Information

The private pilot reported that while hovering prior to takeoff from his private property, a gust of wind blew the experimental helicopter sideways. The right skid caught the ground and the pilot then pulled on the collective, "a little too hard." The helicopter tail rotor then hit a tractor and the left skid hit the ground. The helicopter rolled coming to rest on its left side. The pilot was not injured. The winds at a local airport 15 miles to the north were reported to be from 170 degrees at 12 knots gusting to 17 knots.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot failed to maintain control while hovering in gusty conditions.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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