On August 14, 1985, a Bell 206A (registration N7882S) was involved in an aviation accident near Sarasota, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a landing in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the helicopter rolling off the landing dolly. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter landed on a wood-decked dolly with headwind, but a sudden leftward wind shift caused it to yaw and roll off the platform shortly after touchdown.
What happened
The pilot landed a helicopter on a wood-decked landing dolly. At the time of touchdown, the wind was blowing directly into the nose of the aircraft. Shortly after landing, the pilot reduced the collective pitch control fully down and set the throttle to idle.
Shortly after the aircraft settled, the wind direction shifted to the left and increased in intensity. This sudden change caused the helicopter to yaw to the left and roll over off the left side of the dolly.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the immediate circumstances surrounding the landing and the subsequent loss of control. Examination of the event revealed that the aircraft was stable during the initial phase of the landing but became unstable due to environmental factors immediately following touchdown.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a landing in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the helicopter rolling off the landing dolly.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Aug 1985 Bell 206A accident near Sarasota, FL?
A helicopter landed on a wood-decked dolly with headwind, but a sudden leftward wind shift caused it to yaw and roll off the platform shortly after touchdown.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Aug 1985 involved a Bell 206A, registration N7882S, at Sarasota, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a landing in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in the helicopter rolling off the landing dolly.
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