No fatalities

Helicopter Destroyed by Fire After Rolling Over During Hover Practice (N7579)

Jamesburg, NJ, US

On November 28, 1986, a Bell 47-G2A (registration N7579) was involved in an aviation accident near Jamesburg, NJ. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter training flight ended in a rollover and fire during hover practice. The CFI and student pilot sustained burns after the right skid snapped.

Introduction

A helicopter training flight experienced an accident while practicing hover maneuvers, leading to the aircraft rolling over and being destroyed by fire. Both the certified flight instructor (CFI) and the private student pilot suffered burn injuries.

Training Scenario

The CFI and student were engaged in practicing lifting off to a hover. Under the CFI's direct supervision, the student performed one or two maneuvers that were evaluated as satisfactory. Subsequently, the CFI allowed the student to begin executing the maneuvers without direct oversight.

Accident Sequence

While the student was performing the maneuvers, the CFI heard a snapping sound from the right skid. In an attempt to recover, the CFI applied left cyclic input and lowered the collective. Despite these corrective actions, the helicopter rolled over onto its side. A fire ensued, completely destroying the aircraft.

Injuries and Damage

The CFI and student both sustained burns as a result of the fire. The helicopter was entirely consumed by the flames and was destroyed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Nov 1986 Bell 47-G2A accident near Jamesburg, NJ?

A helicopter training flight ended in a rollover and fire during hover practice. The CFI and student pilot sustained burns after the right skid snapped.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 Nov 1986 Bell 47-G2A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Nov 1986 involved a Bell 47-G2A, registration N7579, at Jamesburg, NJ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X35256. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.