What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1986-05-02 involved a Bell 47G-2, registration N4239J, at Palmdale, CA.

Hard Landing of Bell 47G Helicopter in Desert (N4239J)

On May 2, 1986, a Bell 47G-2 (registration N4239J) was involved in an aviation accident near Palmdale, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A Bell 47G helicopter landed hard in the desert during a VFR personal flight. The pilot reported disorientation and an inoperative compass. Misjudging the landing, the tail struck the ground, causing the main rotor to sever the tail boom.

Overview

A Bell 47G helicopter experienced a hard landing in a desert area while operating under visual flight rules (VFR) on a personal flight. The pilot had departed from a mountain region and intended to refuel.

Pilot's Account

The pilot reported that he was disoriented during the flight and that the helicopter's compass was inoperative. He decided to land to check the fuel quantity.

Landing and Damage

During the landing attempt, the pilot stated he misjudged the touchdown. The tail of the helicopter struck the desert floor, causing the main rotor blades to contact and sever the tail boom.

Fuel Information

After the incident, approximately one quart of fuel was drained from the entire fuel system. According to the manufacturer's operator's manual for the Bell 47G, the total fuel capacity is 43 gallons, with 41 gallons usable.

1986-05-02: Bell 47G-2 (N4239J) — Palmdale, CA