Probable cause
The noncertificated pilot’s decision to practice hovering the helicopter in a confined space, which resulted in the tail rotor striking a tree.
NTSB analysis
The noncertificated pilot reported that, while practicing hovering in his yard, the experimental amateur-built helicopter struck a tree with the tail rotor. He added that, the next thing he knew the helicopter developed "a huge vibration suddenly and [he] had no heading control." Subsequently, the helicopter impacted the ground.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. The helicopter was destroyed by a postcrash fire.
The pilot reported in the NTSB Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report form (6120.1) that he should have taken more dual instruction and that he should have chosen a more open area for hover practice.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA250 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 2, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Iron Station, North Carolina
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built MOSQUITO XE
- N-number
- N725JC
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2013
- Damage
- Destroyed
- 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.