Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA19CA168

Keene, NH, USA

Aircraft #1

N8045H

Hughes TH 55

Analysis

The helicopter pilot reported that, while en route, about 2 miles northeast from his destination airport and about 500 ft above ground level and 60 knots, he heard a loud "thud" from a possible bird strike, and the upper right windscreen/canopy shattered, with pieces going into the main rotor disc and cabin. He continued to the airport and landed without further incident. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The helicopter pilot reported that while enroute, about 2 miles northeast from his destination airport, about 500 feet above ground level and 60 knots, he heard a loud "thud" from a possible bird strike and the upper right windscreen/canopy shattered, with pieces going into the main rotor disc and cabin. He continued to the airport and landed without further incident. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades. The pilot, a certificated Airframe and Powerplant mechanic with Inspection Authorization, reported that after his examination, the main rotor blade damages were beyond the manufacturer's guidance and repair limits. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The helicopter’s collision with a bird during cruise flight.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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