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Helicopter Accident After Emergency Landing and Attempted Takeoff (N3185Z)

Yerington, NV, US

On January 13, 1985, a Bell 206BIII (registration N3185Z) operated by William Meyers was involved in an aviation accident near Yerington, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The helicopter was loaded over the maximum gross weight, and ice on the rotor blades and in the air intake reduced power output during the attempted takeoff. 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 made an emergency landing due to deteriorating weather. Later, during an attempted takeoff, it could not become airborne, bounced down hilly terrain, and rolled over. Overweight and ice accumulation were found.

Accident Sequence

The pilot executed an en route emergency landing after weather conditions deteriorated. Following a waiting period, the pilot attempted a takeoff. During the attempt, the helicopter was unable to become airborne. It proceeded to bounce down hilly terrain and then rolled over onto its left side.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, the weather consisted of freezing temperatures, fog, and snow grains.

Findings

Examination revealed that the helicopter was loaded above its maximum gross weight. Additionally, ice had accumulated on the rotor blades and in the air intake. These factors combined to reduce the power output available during the attempted takeoff.

Probable cause

The helicopter was loaded over the maximum gross weight, and ice on the rotor blades and in the air intake reduced power output during the attempted takeoff.
Icing

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jan 1985 Bell 206BIII accident near Yerington, NV?

A helicopter made an emergency landing due to deteriorating weather. Later, during an attempted takeoff, it could not become airborne, bounced down hilly terrain, and rolled over. Overweight and ice accumulation were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jan 1985 involved a Bell 206BIII, registration N3185Z, operated by William Meyers, at Yerington, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The helicopter was loaded over the maximum gross weight, and ice on the rotor blades and in the air intake reduced power output during the attempted takeoff.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35605. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.