Summary
On January 22, 2026, a Hughes 369 (N105AC) was involved in an incident near North Augusta, SC. All 1 person aboard were uninjured.
This incident is documented in NTSB report ERA26LA097. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N105AC.
Accident Details
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
On January 22, 2026, at 1600 eastern standard time, a Hughes 369D, N105AC, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near North Augusta, South Carolina. The pilot was not injured. The helicopter was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 133 external load flight.
The pilot reported that about 45 minutes into conducting tree trimming operations an engine chips caution light illuminated. The pilot was attempting to return to the landing zone when the engine torque and temperature began to fluctuate, and the helicopter subsequently experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot jettisoned the external load and conducted an autorotation to the ground which resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter.
The helicopter was retained for further examination.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA26LA097