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NTSB Report
July 3, 2011 · Schweizer 269C · N72DC
Katy, TX
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 3, 2011
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Katy, TX
Aircraft
Schweizer 269C
Tail Number
N72DC
Operator
Dylan Aviation
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN11CA442
According to the pilot, during an aerial application flight, the helicopter pilot was flying between 6 and 7 feet above the ground, at an airspeed of 20 knots. While maneuvering, the pilot encountered a low rotor rpm situation and the helicopter started to settle. As soon as the helicopter descended, the landing skid became tangled in the rice plants, and the helicopter came to rest on its side. During the collision with terrain, the tail boom and main rotor separated from the fuselage. An examination of the helicopter and its systems revealed no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate rotor rpm during a low-altitude maneuvering flight.
Full Narrative
The helicopter pilot was flying between six and seven feet above the ground, at an airspeed of 20 knots, over a field of rice to cross-pollinate the crop. The pilot stated that he encountered a low rotor rpm situation and the helicopter started to settle. As soon as the helicopter descended, the landing skid became tangled in the rice plants, the helicopter impacted the rice field, and came to rest on its side. During the collision with terrain, the tail boom and main rotor separated from the fuselage. An examination of the helicopter and its systems, conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, revealed no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time12:15 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledCvfr
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftSchweizer 269C
Tail NumberN72DC
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorDylan Aviation
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · HIO-360 SER · Reciprocating · 205
Seats3
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 31 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point68 F
Altimeter29.98 inHg
Observation Time17:53
Weather SourceWFAC