On January 6, 1983, a Bell 206B III (registration N55LW) was involved in an aviation accident near Sula, MT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter crashed tail low and rolled over in an open field during marginal weather. The pilot held an expired student certificate and medical, and lacked a helicopter rating. Witnesses reported poor visibility and snow.
Accident Details
The helicopter crashed tail low and rolled over in an open field. The accident occurred during marginal weather conditions. Examination of the wreckage did not reveal any specific reason for low rotor RPM just prior to ground impact.
Pilot Information
The pilot was flying on an expired student certificate and an expired medical certificate. According to a pilot who had worked with him, the pilot had no helicopter rating.
Weather Conditions
Witnesses stated that the weather conditions at the time of the accident included poor visibility and snow falling.
Wreckage Examination
Investigators examined the wreckage but found no specific reason for the low rotor RPM observed just before the helicopter struck the ground.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 Jan 1983 Bell 206B III accident near Sula, MT?
A helicopter crashed tail low and rolled over in an open field during marginal weather. The pilot held an expired student certificate and medical, and lacked a helicopter rating. Witnesses reported poor visibility and snow.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Jan 1983 involved a Bell 206B III, registration N55LW, at Sula, MT.
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