On January 21, 1985, a Bell 206 L-1 (registration N40TE) operated by Ems was involved in an aviation accident near Carson, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter crashed in open terrain while reversing direction. Witnesses saw it on a converging course with high-tension lines. It impacted snow-covered ground in a steep right bank at high speed. No evidence of power line strike; site was 300 feet east of the lines.
Accident Description
The helicopter crashed in open terrain while maneuvering to reverse its direction of flight. The impact occurred during a turn that resulted in a steep descending bank to the right at a high rate of speed. The aircraft came to rest on snow-covered ground while on a southerly heading.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that the helicopter was initially heading north and was on a converging course with overhead high-tension lines. The power lines were estimated to be between 80 and 100 feet in height. According to witnesses, the belly-mounted spotlight was illuminated as the aircraft passed overhead.
Site and Power Line Examination
Examination of the power lines showed no evidence that the helicopter had struck them. The accident site was located approximately 300 feet east of the power lines. The terrain at the impact point was open and covered with snow.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 Jan 1985 Bell 206 L-1 accident near Carson, NM?
A helicopter crashed in open terrain while reversing direction. Witnesses saw it on a converging course with high-tension lines. It impacted snow-covered ground in a steep right bank at high speed. No evidence of power line strike; site was 300 feet east of the lines.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Jan 1985 involved a Bell 206 L-1, registration N40TE, operated by Ems, at Carson, NM.
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