Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient main rotor speed during the quick-stop maneuver. Contributing to the accident was the drainage ditch.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was practicing a quick-stop maneuver when the accident occurred. He stated that the helicopter's main rotor speed was too low as he flared for landing. The helicopter landed hard, bounced off the right side of the runway, and then rolled over in a drainage ditch. The pilot reported that his most recent FAA medical examination and flight review were completed in 2001 and 1999, respectively.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CHI08CA267 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 23, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bremen, Ohio
- Nearest airport
- Willard Field Airport (62OH)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Hughes 269A
- N-number
- N2256W
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.