On July 7, 1986, a Bell 47G-5 (registration N94458) operated by Dennis Claire was involved in an aviation accident near Elrosa, MN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter was observed flying straight and level at low altitude before impacting the ground in a northeasterly direction, contrary to its last known heading.
What happened
The helicopter was initially observed by witnesses flying at a low altitude. During this phase of flight, the aircraft appeared to be maintaining a straight and level attitude. The sound of the engine and rotors was reported as normal, indicating no immediate mechanical distress or unusual operation.
Despite the stable appearance, the helicopter impacted the ground in a northeasterly direction. This impact vector was 180 degrees opposite to the flight path last observed by witnesses. There were no eyewitnesses to the actual moment of the crash. Due to the remote terrain and the severity of the damage sustained upon impact, the wreckage was not located until the following day.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Jul 1986 Bell 47G-5 accident near Elrosa, MN?
A helicopter was observed flying straight and level at low altitude before impacting the ground in a northeasterly direction, contrary to its last known heading.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Jul 1986 involved a Bell 47G-5, registration N94458, operated by Dennis Claire, at Elrosa, MN.
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