On September 9, 1985, a Mbb BK-117A-1 (registration N117SR) operated by Wackenhut Services, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Aiken, SC. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter maneuvering at low altitude into rising terrain descended slightly, banked steeply, and contacted trees, then yawed and struck the ground backward at a 35-degree descent angle. All seven occupants exited through the right doors.
Accident Description
A helicopter was being maneuvered at low altitude and into rising terrain while performing a racetrack pattern. During the third right turn of the pattern, witnesses observed the aircraft descend slightly, roll into a bank of 45 degrees or greater, and contact trees. Following the tree contact, the helicopter began a yawing rotation to the right and struck the ground at approximately a 35-degree angle of descent while traveling backward.
Occupant Egress
All seven occupants successfully exited the aircraft through the right doors after the accident.
Operational Context
The flight was a single-pilot operation. The investigation noted that task load and mission pressures were high at the time of the accident.
What happened in the 9 Sept 1985 Mbb BK-117A-1 accident near Aiken, SC?
A helicopter maneuvering at low altitude into rising terrain descended slightly, banked steeply, and contacted trees, then yawed and struck the ground backward at a 35-degree descent angle. All seven occupants exited through the right doors.
Were there any fatalities in the 9 Sept 1985 Mbb BK-117A-1 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Sept 1985 involved a Mbb BK-117A-1, registration N117SR, operated by Wackenhut Services, Inc., at Aiken, SC.
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