The non-certificated pilot reported that, while practicing hovering in his yard in Iron Station, N.C., the experimental amateur-built helicopter hit a tree with the tail rotor.
The next thing he knew, the helicopter developed “a huge vibration suddenly and he had no heading control.”
The helicopter then hit the ground and was destroyed by a post-crash fire. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The pilot reported in the NTSB Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report form (6120.1) that he should have taken more dual instruction and that he should have chosen a more open area for hover practice.
Probable cause: The noncertificated pilot’s decision to practice hovering the helicopter in a confined space, which resulted in the tail rotor striking a tree.
NTSB Identification: GAA18CA250
This May 2018 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
