Flight Safety Detectives Episode 148: Troy Gentry Crash caused by Maintenance Error
The helicopter crash that killed musician Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry was primarily caused by improper maintenance. The Flight Safety Detectives share why they find fault with the NTSB assigning the primary cause to the pilot.
“It is clear that the basic cause of this accident occurred in the hangar,” says John Goglia.
John and Todd review the information in the NTSB report. They applaud the excellent work done by the NTSB lab that showed how improper installation of engine tie rod nuts led to engine failure of the Schweizer 269C.
While there are pages of analysis of the pilot and his actions in the NTSB final report, the clear maintenance deficiencies are covered minimally. The mechanic did not follow the manual or specifications.
While at the NTSB, John pushed for more investment in exploring human factors in the maintenance hangar. This accident shows a continued lack of commitment to defining corrective actions for maintenance personnel.
Link to listen to the episode.
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