Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN13CA281

Camdenton, MO, USA

Aircraft #1

N725M

HUGHES 369D

Analysis

Same as Factual Information

Factual Information

The purpose of the helicopter flight was to trim trees using an external load aerial power saw. The pilot stated that as he was trimming the trees, he saw a 6 to 8 inch piece of wood/tree flying upward on the left side of the helicopter. He stated he felt a momentary vibration as the wood contacted one of the main rotor blades, then everything returned to “normal.” The pilot made a precautionary landing in a nearby field without further incident. The damage to the main rotor blade was substantial and required replacement of the blade.

Probable Cause and Findings

The piece of wood/tree that contacted the main rotor blade during the low altitude tree-trimming flight.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

Get all the details on your iPhone or iPad with:

Aviation Accidents App

In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports