Aug 10, 2006
Accident
Substantial Tucson, AZ
Injuries1 fatal, 1 serious
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate rotor rpm and adequate terrain clearance while maneuvering to reverse direction. Contributing factors were the high density altitude, that exceeded the helicopter's performance capability, and the rising mountainous terrain.
NTSB LAX06LA257