Probable cause
Failure of the cyclic control system for reasons undetermined.
NTSB analysis
The helicopter was facing into the wind and hovering, with an external load, over an open field adjacent to the work area. The pilot made a 180-degree right pedal turn to enter the work area, approximately 120 feet above the ground. While trimming for the left quartering tailwind, he heard a loud "pop" and felt a "thump" in his seat. He was unable move the cyclic control to the left, and the helicopter started a right banking turn. The helicopter rolled sharply to the right and impacted the ground. A postaccident examination of the helicopter revealed no discrepancies. Flight control continuity was established from the cockpit to the flight controls. When the flight controls were manipulated, no obstructions or binding were noted.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA200 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 23, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Henryetta, Oklahoma
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Hughes 369D
- N-number
- N112AS
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 133 (external load)
- Purpose of flight
- External load
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.