On March 17, 1987, a Bell 206B-3 (registration N9AR) operated by Alyeska Pipeline was involved in an aviation accident near Valdez, AK. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter on pipeline patrol collided with transmission lines, killing the pilot and seriously injuring the observer. The observer reported they were flying toward a burning object that turned out to be an ignited hazard warning ball.
Accident Details
A helicopter conducting a pipeline patrol mission collided with overhead transmission lines. The impact fatally injured the pilot and seriously injured the observer on board. The accident occurred while the crew was flying near snow-covered terrain.
Witness Account
According to the observer, the helicopter was flying toward a burning object on the snow located near two snow machines when it struck the transmission wire. The observer stated that the burning object was later determined to be a hazard warning ball that had apparently ignited on the transmission line and fallen to the ground.
What happened in the 17 Mar 1987 Bell 206B-3 accident near Valdez, AK?
A helicopter on pipeline patrol collided with transmission lines, killing the pilot and seriously injuring the observer. The observer reported they were flying toward a burning object that turned out to be an ignited hazard warning ball.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Mar 1987 Bell 206B-3 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Mar 1987 involved a Bell 206B-3, registration N9AR, operated by Alyeska Pipeline, at Valdez, AK.
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