Hiller UH-12E N7082D

Summary

On 14 May 1997 at about 18:59 local time, a Hiller UH-12E registered N7082D was involved in an accident near Truckee, California, United States. One person was on board and one was seriously injured. The aircraft was substantially damaged. The NTSB has published a probable cause for this accident; it is quoted in full below.

Date

14 May 1997 at 18:59

Classification

Accident

Location

Truckee, California, United States

Nearest airport

Private Dirt Strip

Coordinates

39.3304, -120.2397

Aircraft

Hiller UH-12E

Registration

N7082D

Category

Helicopter

Engines

1

Operator

Not recorded

Operating rule

Part 133: Rotorcraft Ext. Load

Purpose of flight

Positioning

Phase of flight

Not recorded

Aircraft damage

Substantial

Weather

VMC

Light

Day

NTSB number

LAX97LA179

1 person was seriously injured.

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor in the accident was the unsuccessful attempt to release the long line from the belly hook after it became entangled in a tree.

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record. This site does not paraphrase or interpret it.

Read the full NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the purpose of the accident flight was to move a 200-foot long line to a new clearing area. After takeoff from the dirt strip, the pilot heard a change in the sound of the engine. He stated that he was turning back to make an emergency landing and attempted to release the long line; however, it became entangled around a tree and the helicopter impacted the ground. FAA inspectors examined the helicopter and the long line, but could not make a determination of when the long line became entangled in the tree; during takeoff or upon returning to land. Examination of the engine revealed continuity throughout, with no preexisting malfunctions noted.

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record.