# NTSB Accident CHI08FA128
> **EUROCOPTER DEUTSCHLAND GMBH EC 135 T2+** · 2008-05-11 · La Crosse, WI, USA · FATL
## Event
- **NTSB number:** CHI08FA128
- **Event ID:** 20080520X00702
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 2008-05-11
- **Location:** La Crosse, WI, USA
- **Coordinates:** 43.841945, -91.165557
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** FATL
- **Fatal:** 3
- **Serious:** 0
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 0
- **Total aboard:** 3
## Aircraft
- **Make:** EUROCOPTER DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
- **Model:** EC 135 T2+
- **Registration:** N135UW
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 2
- **Damage:** DEST
## Conditions
- **Light:** NDRK
- **Weather:** VMC
## Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees along the top of a ridgeline due to inadequate preflight planning, insufficient altitude, and the lack of a helicopter terrain awareness and warning system.   Member Sumwalt did not approve this brief and probable cause. Member Sumwalt filed a dissenting statement that can be found in the public docket for this accident.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=CHI08FA128) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*