Accident Hiller UH-12E Soloy N7082D, Wednesday 14 May 1997

You can contribute by submitting additional or updated information.

Date:	Wednesday 14 May 1997
Time:	11:59 LT
Type:	Hiller UH-12E Soloy
Owner/operator:	Croman Corporation
Registration:	N7082D
MSN:	5193
Total airframe hrs:	2802 hours
Engine model:	Allison 250-C20B
Fatalities:	Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 1
Other fatalities:	0
Aircraft damage:	Substantial
Category:	Accident
Location:	Truckee, CA - United States of America
Phase:	Initial climb
Nature:	Ferry/positioning
Departure airport:
Destination airport:
Investigating agency:	NTSB
Confidence Rating:	Accident investigation report completed and information captured

Narrative:
The pilot reported that the purpose of the accident flight was to move a 200-foot long line to a new clearing area. After takeoff from the dirt strip, the pilot heard a change in the sound of the engine. He stated that he was turning back to make an emergency landing and attempted to release the long line; however, it became entangled around a tree and the helicopter impacted the ground. FAA inspectors examined the helicopter and the long line, but could not make a determination of when the long line became entangled in the tree; during takeoff or upon returning to land. Examination of the engine revealed continuity throughout, with no preexisting malfunctions noted.

Probable Cause: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor in the accident was the unsuccessful attempt to release the long line from the belly hook after it became entangled in a tree.

Accident investigation: