NTSB of the Week
Date: September 3, 2022 | Location: Arthur, Kentucky | Aircraft: Rotorway Jetexec | Local Registration: N162NH | Accident Number: ERA22FA397
Probable Cause and Findings: The pilot’s decision to attempt the cross-country flight in thunderstorm conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to obtain a weather briefing.
Takeaways
Always obtain a preflight weather briefing, as required by 91.103:
“Each pilot in command shall, before beginning a flight, become familiar with all available information concerning that flight. This information must include— (a) “...weather reports and forecasts...”
Recognize external pressures such as ‘Get-there-itis’, and ensure that any decision to continue a flight isn’t influenced by those pressures
Recognize trigger points for deteriorating weather conditions (slowing airspeed, descending altitude, etc.) and divert or land once those trigger points have been met
When something’s not right (weather, mechanical, medical, etc.), land and LIVE -VAI
Check back weekly for new reports!
Last week’s: NTSB of the Week
Date: July 24, 2024 | Location: Bonners Ferry, Idaho | Aircraft: Hiller UH-12E | Local Registration: N3375T | Accident Number: WPR24LA262
Probable Cause and Findings: The pilot’s improper selection of a landing site, which resulted in a main rotor strike. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s improper performance planning and altitude selection over water, which resulted in an rpm droop.
Takeaways
Always calculate HOGE limits prior to flight
When operating near HOGE limits or if performance is questionable, conduct a HOGE power check at 500' AGL; Ensure there is at least a 10% margin between power required for the power check and maximum power available
Remember that ground effect decreases over water and may require additional power
Give yourself extra margin of safety by choosing an LZ with a buffer between LZ elevation and HOGE ceiling, or chose an LZ with an available go-around path if low RPM or LTE develops
Continually train and practice low RPM recognition and recovery
Check back weekly for new reports!