Casualties unknown

1985-06-11: Sikorsky S76A (N176FJ) — Raco Helicopters — Belmar, NJ

Belmar, NJ, US

On June 11, 1985, a Sikorsky S76A (registration N176FJ) operated by Raco Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Belmar, NJ. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A collision between airplane N4956B and helicopter N176FJ occurred at an uncontrolled airport during takeoff and landing practice. The helicopter, which did not see or hear the airplane, was hovering near the runway when the airplane veered right and struck it.

Overview

On an unspecified date, a collision occurred between a fixed-wing aircraft, N4956B, and a helicopter, N176FJ, at an uncontrolled airport. The incident took place during takeoff and landing practice for a pre-solo student pilot under the supervision of a certified flight instructor (CFI).

Sequence of Events

According to the report, the CFI observed the helicopter approaching the airport while N4956B was on a left base leg for runway 3. The helicopter, N176FJ, approached from the south and came to a hover at a position near the parallel taxiway adjacent to runway 3. The helicopter apparently did not see the airplane nor did it hear any radio calls. As N4956B was lifting off after a touch-and-go landing, it veered to the right and collided with the hovering helicopter.

CFI Statement

After being removed from the aircraft, the CFI stated that they had been caught in the helicopter's rotor vortex turbulence.

Aircraft Information

The two aircraft involved were N4956B (airplane) and N176FJ (helicopter). No further details about the aircraft models or operators were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36887. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.