On March 2, 1982, a Bell 206B (registration N63AL) operated by Air Logistics Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near High Island Blk. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to descend too low during the approach, resulting in contact between the tail boom and safety netting beyond the platform boundaries. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A helicopter descended too low during approach, causing its tail to strike safety netting beyond the platform before settling into the water.
What happened
The aircraft was positioned on a final approach to a helipad when it became evident that the descent profile was lower than intended. During the flare phase of the landing sequence, the vertical fin and tail boom made contact with safety netting that extended beyond the physical boundaries of the platform landing area. Following this impact, the helicopter settled back off the platform surface. One main rotor blade struck flat against the landing area before the aircraft ultimately came to rest in the water.
The investigation
Examination of the event revealed no evidence of mechanical issues prior to the incident. Investigators determined that there was no preimpact malfunction or failure of any system that contributed to the accident sequence.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to descend too low during the approach, resulting in contact between the tail boom and safety netting beyond the platform boundaries.
What happened in the 2 Mar 1982 Bell 206B accident near High Island Blk?
A helicopter descended too low during approach, causing its tail to strike safety netting beyond the platform before settling into the water.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Mar 1982 involved a Bell 206B, registration N63AL, operated by Air Logistics Inc., at High Island Blk.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to descend too low during the approach, resulting in contact between the tail boom and safety netting beyond the platform boundaries.
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