Nov 1, 1990
Accident
Destroyed GATLINBURG, TN
Injuries1 serious, 2 minor
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
THE ACCIDENT WAS INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE OF THE HELICOPTER, ALLOWING A TAIL ROTOR DRIVE SHAFT BEARING TO EXCEED WEAR LIMITS. THIS RESULTED IN HIGH LOADS ON THE TAIL ROTOR DRIVE SHAFT, AND THE RESULTING FATIGUE FAILURE OF THE DRIVE SHAFT.
NTSB ATL91FA013