Hughes 369HS accident near Pierce, ID
On December 28, 2000, a Hughes 369HS (helicopter) was involved in an accident near Pierce, ID. 2 people died. Damage to the aircraft: substantial.
- Date
- December 28, 2000
- Place
- Pierce, ID
- Aircraft
- Hughes 369HS · Helicopter
- Injuries
- 2 fatal, 1 serious, 0 minor
- Damage
- Substantial
- Position
- 46.363°N, 115.316°W
- NTSB ID
- 20010104X00011
NTSB summary
HISTORY OF FLIGHT On December 28, 2000, about 1505 Pacific standard time, a Hughes 369HS, N9186F, registered to Panhandle Helicopters, and contracted by Idaho Fish and Game as a 14 CFR Part 91 three day aerial wildlife survey, collided with a tree and subsequently the ground while maneuvering in mountainous terrain about 20 miles east of Pierce, Idaho. Visual meteorological conditions were reported at the time by the passenger and a company visual flight rules flight plan was in effect. The helicopter was substantially damaged and the commercial pilot and one passenger were fatally injured. The second passenger was seriously injured. The flight had been operating in the area since about 1000 that day. The passenger reported that this was the second day of a three day aerial wildlife survey. The survey was to estimate the population density of mountain lions in the area by sighting tracks in the snow. On the day of the accident, flying activities began about 1000. At about 1445, the helicopter landed for fuel. After the fueling was complete, the helicopter took off to continue the survey. The passenger stated that the survey area was divided into 63 random sites. During each run, a contour line elevation was selected at the established coordinates. The pilot would position the helicopter about 100 to 150 feet above the contour line elevation (above ground level) and fly for approximately 12-minutes per run along the contour. The flight had just completed one 12-minute run and was positioning for a second. The passenger, who was seated in the left rear seat behind the pilot,
Probable cause
While maneuvering, clearance from an object was not maintained. A tree was a factor.
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Browse: Idaho · Hughes aircraft
Source: NTSB aviation accident database (US government, public domain). Findings may be preliminary or later revised by the NTSB. Not a complete global record.
