Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection in which he failed to remove the tail rotor covers, which resulted in the failure of the tail rotor drive shaft during engine start.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
According to the pilot, while conducting a preflight inspection, he overlooked the removal of the tail rotor covers. He started the helicopter and shortly thereafter he heard a "snap", and the helicopter began to "shake". The helicopter was immediately shutdown and a visual inspection revealed substantial damage to the tail rotor drive shaft. The pilot reported no other preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA14CA143