Robinson R44
Flight Crew Commercial
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 40; Flight Crew Total 1355; Flight Crew Type 1255
Situational Awareness
Conflict NMAC
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Human Factors
I had a very scary encounter with three F-16s in South Carolina just south west of 35A while flying along in a R44. While flying at 2;500 feet and northeast bound I saw them pass me on my right side several miles away from me; at my altitude; and headed on a similar course as me at a high rate of speed. As I kept my eye on them I noticed that they had turned and started heading directly towards me. They were still probably a minute away from me so I continued to just watch as they rapidly approached me at my altitude and at my 3 o'clock. So I immediately entered a high rate descent but only to have them descend with me at my same rate. I descended from 2;500 feet to about 250 feet AGL only to have them descend to 250 feet AGL as well still on a direct collision path with me. At approximately 700 to 500 feet away from me they then made a very aggressive high speed turn in the opposite direction I was headed! I was very frightened from the incident. I was shaking for a few minutes afterwards.
R44 helicopter pilot reported he was 'frightened' by the close; and apparently deliberate; pass of three F-16s.