Casualties unknown

Helicopter Rolls Over After Pilot Exits Without Collective Friction (N29GW)

West Palm Bch, FL, US

On September 4, 1984, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N29GW) was involved in an aviation accident near West Palm Bch, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter rolled over after its pilot exited without applying friction to the collective control, causing the rotor disc to tilt forward and the aircraft to shake, according to the pilot's statement.

Incident Summary

According to the pilot, the helicopter was flown from one fixed base operator on the airport to another to reposition the aircraft. After landing, the pilot set the friction on the cyclic control but did not apply friction to the collective control. The throttle was reduced to flight idle, and the pilot then exited the helicopter.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported that as he walked toward the hangar to retrieve a portable landing dolly, he observed the rotor disc tilting forward and the aircraft shaking. He immediately ran away from the helicopter. Subsequently, the helicopter rolled over.

Outcome

The aircraft rolled over after the pilot's evacuation. No further details about damage or injuries were provided in the initial report. The investigation is ongoing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Sept 1984 Bell 206L-1 accident near West Palm Bch, FL?

A helicopter rolled over after its pilot exited without applying friction to the collective control, causing the rotor disc to tilt forward and the aircraft to shake, according to the pilot's statement.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Sept 1984 involved a Bell 206L-1, registration N29GW, at West Palm Bch, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41149. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.