Probable cause
The pilot’s delayed decision to initiate a go-around while landing in an unimproved area which resulted in a collision with debris.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was conducting cargo and crew shuttle operations in support of firefighting operations. During the approach to a remote landing site that throughout the day had been continuously provided with dust abatement, there was significant dust and small sage type vegetation debris in the air that was kicked up from the helicopter’s rotor wash. The pilot subsequently performed a go-around. During a post-flight inspection, substantial damage to the tail rotor was discovered.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20CA284 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 24, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Laverne, California
- Nearest airport
- Brackett Field (POC)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 205
- N-number
- N386HQ
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1970
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
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.