What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-09-27 involved a Bell 47G4A, registration N79195, at Catarina, TX.

Helicopter Collides with Platform on Trailer During Practice Landing, Burns After Loss of Control (N79195)

On September 27, 1983, a Bell 47G4A (registration N79195) was involved in an aviation accident near Catarina, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of anti-torque control following a tail rotor strike during a practice landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During a practice landing, a helicopter collided with a platform on a trailer. The pilot attempted to reposition, causing the tail rotor to strike the trailer, leading to loss of anti-torque control and a subsequent fire.

Accident Overview

A helicopter was conducting a practice landing when it collided with a platform mounted on a trailer. The pilot was not satisfied with the aircraft's position on the platform and attempted to reposition the helicopter. During this maneuver, the helicopter rocked and the tail rotor struck the trailer.

Loss of Anti-Torque Control

The impact with the trailer resulted in a loss of anti-torque control. This caused the helicopter to touch down in a downwind yaw. The right landing skid collapsed under the stress, and the aircraft rolled over onto its right side.

Post-Collision Fire

After rolling over, the helicopter caught fire and was consumed by flames.

Wind Conditions

At the time of the occurrence, the wind was reported as from 100 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Probable cause

Loss of anti-torque control following a tail rotor strike during a practice landing.

1983-09-27: Bell 47G4A (N79195) — Catarina, TX