Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain directional control after a skid got caught on a fence while he was maneuvering the helicopter for takeoff, which resulted in a dynamic roll-over.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while attempting to takeoff from a landing zone (LZ) that was overgrown with tall vegetation, the right front skid got caught in a fence, which resulted in a dynamic roll over. The helicopter rolled to the right and forward down the ridge and came to rest on its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, tail boom and main rotor transmission. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA012 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 25, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Waialua, Hawaii
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mcdonnell Douglas Helicopter 369E
- N-number
- N545PH
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1997
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
- Purpose of flight
- Other work use
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.