Probable cause
A loss of clearance between the tail rotor drive shaft and the tailboom bulkhead for undetermined reasons, which resulted in the overstress failure of the drive shaft.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported a vibration in the helicopter antitorque pedals and a subsequent loss of directional control. The pilot initiated an autorotation to a field, and the helicopter sustained damage to the left landing skid and fuselage. A postaccident examination revealed that the tail rotor drive shaft failed due to an overstress fracture that resulted from contact with the tailboom bulkhead. Examination of the tailboom support structure was unable to determine the underlying cause of the contact between the tailboom and drive shaft. The operator reported that he was not aware of any events prior to the accident that would have compromised the tailboom support structure.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA315 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 29, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Edgerton, Indiana
- Nearest airport
- Van Wert County (VNW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Hughes 269B
- N-number
- N9561F
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
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.