Casualties unknown

Helicopter Autorotation and Tailboom Strike Following Fuel Contamination (N2917W)

Inverness, CA, US

On November 10, 1984, a Bell 206B (registration N2917W) was involved in an aviation accident near Inverness, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered N2917W
Aircraft registered N2917W. Photo: R6, State & Private Forestry, Forest Health Protection / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

During autorotation at about 300 ft due to decreasing engine and rotor RPM, the helicopter touched down in soft sand with forward motion. Full aft cyclic application caused main rotor contact with tailboom. Fuel inspection revealed significant water contamination.

Incident Summary

An autorotation was initiated at approximately 300 feet above ground level as both engine and rotor RPM began to decrease. The helicopter subsequently touched down in soft sand while still having some forward motion. During the touchdown, full aft cyclic was applied, causing the main rotor to contact the tailboom.

Fuel System Examination

Examination of the helicopter's fuel system revealed approximately two-thirds of a quart of water in the fuel filter and a substantial amount of water in the fuel pump. Additionally, about half a gallon of water was found in the fuel drum from which the helicopter had just been serviced.

Damage

The main rotor contacted the tailboom during the event. No further damage details were provided.

No Injuries Reported

No injuries or fatalities were mentioned in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Nov 1984 Bell 206B accident near Inverness, CA?

During autorotation at about 300 ft due to decreasing engine and rotor RPM, the helicopter touched down in soft sand with forward motion. Full aft cyclic application caused main rotor contact with tailboom. Fuel inspection revealed significant water contamination.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Nov 1984 involved a Bell 206B, registration N2917W, at Inverness, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41605. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.