Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The helicopter’s collision with a bird during cruise flight.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The helicopter pilot reported that while enroute, about 2 miles northeast from his destination airport, about 500 feet above ground level and 60 knots, he heard a loud "thud" from a possible bird strike and the upper right windscreen/canopy shattered, with pieces going into the main rotor disc and cabin. He continued to the airport and landed without further incident.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades.
The pilot, a certificated Airframe and Powerplant mechanic with Inspection Authorization, reported that after his examination, the main rotor blade damages were beyond the manufacturer's guidance and repair limits.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane 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# GAA19CA168