When do the majority of helicopter accidents occur?

The majority of helicopter accidents occur during takeoff and landings due to several critical factors associated with these phases of flight. Takeoff and landing are inherently challenging moments that require precise control and awareness of the helicopter's surroundings.

During takeoff, pilots must manage the helicopter's power dynamics while ensuring a clean and safe ascent. Any issues, such as mechanical failures or pilot errors, can lead to accidents in this phase. Similarly, landing often involves navigating complex ground conditions, potential obstacles, and the need for accurate control as the helicopter descends and touches down.

Since these phases involve higher workload and situational awareness demands, they statistically represent a significant number of helicopter incidents. The potential for human error is elevated during these moments, contributing to the higher accident rates in comparison to other phases of flight, like cruising or in-flight maneuvers where the aircraft is typically stable.

In contrast, nighttime operations are generally riskier due to visibility issues, but they do not contribute as significantly to the overall percentage of accidents compared to takeoff and landings. Maintenance procedures carry their own risks but are less frequent, and while in-flight maneuvers can lead to accidents, they are not as common as incidents during the critical phases of takeoff and landing.