On June 28, 1986, a Bell 206B III (registration N1068Y) operated by Joe Brigha, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Moultonboro, NH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Bell Jet Ranger helicopter autorotated to a landing after the pilot heard a growling noise in the aft portion. Examination revealed the tail rotor gear box was separated and one blade missing, with failure opposite normal rotation.
Event Summary
A Bell Jet Ranger helicopter had just released an external load and was returning downhill when the pilot reported hearing a growling noise from the aft section of the aircraft. Control was subsequently lost, and the pilot performed an autorotation to a landing.
Post-Accident Examination
After the wreckage was removed from the accident scene, examination showed the tail rotor gear box was detached from the airframe. One tail rotor blade was missing. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) laboratory analyzed the remaining tail rotor stub and determined that the failure direction was opposite to normal rotation. The object struck by the tail rotor could not be identified. Additionally, rotation of the 90-degree gearbox revealed no binding.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 28 Jun 1986 Bell 206B III accident near Moultonboro, NH?
A Bell Jet Ranger helicopter autorotated to a landing after the pilot heard a growling noise in the aft portion. Examination revealed the tail rotor gear box was separated and one blade missing, with failure opposite normal rotation.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Jun 1986 involved a Bell 206B III, registration N1068Y, operated by Joe Brigha, Inc., at Moultonboro, NH.
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