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NTSB Report
March 14, 2015 · Enstrom F28 - C · N5688N
Shelby, MT
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
March 14, 2015
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Shelby, MT
Aircraft
Enstrom F28 - C (1980)
Tail Number
N5688N
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR15CA128
The pilot reported that while maneuvering at a low altitude over a machinery yard, he observed a low rotor rpm condition. When he lifted the collective the rpm continued to bleed off, which resulted in the helicopter yawing to the left. The pilot stated that he managed to get the helicopter back under control, but then entered the low rotor rpm condition a second time. Unable to keep the helicopter flying straight, the aircraft impacted up sloping terrain with its left skid, followed by the main rotor blades striking the ground. The helicopter sustained substantial damage due to the impact with terrain. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain main rotor RPM during a low altitude operation, which resulted in a loss of aircraft control and collision with terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that while maneuvering at a low altitude over a machinery yard, he observed a low rotor rpm condition. When he lifted the collective the rpm continued to bleed off, which resulted in the helicopter yawing to the left. The pilot stated that he managed to get the helicopter back under control, but then entered the low rotor rpm condition a second time. Unable to keep the helicopter flying straight, the aircraft impacted up sloping terrain with its left skid, which was followed by the main rotor blades striking the ground. The helicopter sustained substantial damage due to the impact with terrain. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time18:00 MDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftEnstrom F28 - C
Tail NumberN5688N
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · HIO-360 · Reciprocating
Seats3
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 53 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind200° @ 7 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point64 F / 48
Altimeter30.15 inHg
Observation Time23:56
Weather SourceWFAC