N3275M

Substantial
Serious

SCHWEIZER 269C-1S/N: 0159

Accident Details

Date
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
NTSB Number
ERA10CA109
Location
Grantsville, MD
Event ID
20100106X13418
Coordinates
39.685001, -79.186111
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
1
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's loss of aircraft control after encountering turbulence over a mountain range. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to obtain an Airmet for turbulence along the route of flight prior to departure and while enroute.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N3275M
Make
SCHWEIZER
Serial Number
0159
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2003
Model / ICAO
269C-1H269
Aircraft Type
Rotorcraft
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
AERIAL RESOURCES LLC
Address
5172 W MILITARY HWY STE E
Status
Deregistered
City
CHESAPEAKE
State / Zip Code
VA 23321-1100
Country
United States

Analysis

While enroute to the destination airport, the pilot made a stop to fuel the helicopter and check the weather. According to the pilot, no precipitation was predicted for his route of flight, the winds were expected from the northwest at 15 knots, and a cloud ceiling of 2,500 feet broken was forecast. He stated that no specific windshear or turbulence was forecast. The pilot continued the flight and noted that the wind became stronger over the mountains. He decided he would land the helicopter after he passed over the second ridge; however, as he continued, "strong windshear" lifted the helicopter and then "dropped it to the ground." The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical anomalies with the helicopter. He also reported approximately 600 hours of total flight experience, all of which were in make and model of the accident helicopter. Examination of recorded weather information revealed AIRMET TANGO for turbulence was in effect for the pilot's route of flight.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA10CA109