Probable cause
A loss of control for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the helicopter reported that he was departing over a river in dark night conditions when, shortly after takeoff, the helicopter yawed severely to the left. He applied full right anti-torque pedal and the helicopter subsequently impacted the water. The helicopter was not examined after the accident, and the reason for the loss of control could not be determined based on the available information.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR19LA249 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 1, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Asotin, Washington
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night, dark
Hughes 369
- N-number
- N54528
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1978
- 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.