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NTSB Report
August 24, 2020 · Bell 205 A1 · N386HQ
Laverne, CA
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 24, 2020
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (6 uninjured)
Location
Laverne, CA
Aircraft
Bell 205 A1 (1970)
Tail Number
N386HQ
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR20CA284
The pilot reported that he was conducting cargo and crew shuttle operations in support of firefighting operations. During the approach to a remote landing site that throughout the day had been continuously provided with dust abatement, there was significant dust and small sage type vegetation debris in the air that was kicked up from the helicopter’s rotor wash. The pilot subsequently performed a go-around. During a post-flight inspection, substantial damage to the tail rotor was discovered.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s delayed decision to initiate a go-around while landing in an unimproved area which resulted in a collision with debris.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that he was conducting cargo and crew shuttle operations in support of firefighting operations. During the approach to a remote landing site that throughout the day had been continuously provided with dust abatement, there was significant dust and small sage type vegetation debris in the air that was kicked up from the helicopter’s rotor wash. The pilot subsequently performed a go-around. During a post-flight inspection, substantial damage to the tail rotor was discovered.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time19:30 PDT
Nearest AirportBrackett Field (9nm WNW)
Runway26R
Runway Length3661 ft
Runway Width75 ft
Flight Plan FiledCvfr
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBell 205 A1
Tail NumberN386HQ
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 135
Engines1
Engine TypeTurboshaft
Engine DetailsHoneywell · T53 -A · Turboshaft
Seats11
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (6 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured6
Total6
Crew 1Age 36 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind250° @ 15 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point64 F
Altimeter29.93 inHg
Observation Time01:53
Weather SourceWFAC