Hughes 369HS N2058X accident near Pacific Ocean, PO

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from an object during takeoff from the deck of a fishing vessel.

NTSB analysis

A representative of the operator reported that during takeoff from the deck of a fishing vessel, the tail rotor contacted an object on the deck. In his statement, the pilot said that during takeoff for a local fish spotting flight, the helicopter experienced a “violent movement to the right.” Despite the pilot’s input of left pedal, he was unable to regain control of the helicopter. The helicopter landed hard on the deck, resulting in the collapse of the left landing skid. Subsequently the helicopter rolled over and came to rest on its side while remaining on the deck. Examination of the helicopter by the pilot revealed structural damage to the tail boom, tail rotor, and main rotor assembly. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the helicopter or its flight control systems.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09LA244 for the full record.