On March 21, 1987, a Bell 47G-3B-1 (registration N62462) was involved in an aviation accident near Odessa, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An investigation found that a helicopter touched down on its skid heels with low rotor RPM, causing the tail boom to rise and be severed by the main rotor blades.
Landing Sequence
During a landing, the helicopter touched down on the heels of its skids, with the left skid contacting the ground first. At the time, the rotor RPM was slightly low.
Post-Impact Dynamics
Following touchdown, the tail boom moved upward while the main rotor blades flexed downward. The downward-flexing main rotor blades then contacted and severed the tail boom. This caused the tail rotor assembly to separate and fall to the ground.
Evidence
Post-accident examination revealed fresh marks on the main rotor hub assembly where it had banged against the main rotor droop stops.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 Mar 1987 Bell 47G-3B-1 accident near Odessa, TX?
An investigation found that a helicopter touched down on its skid heels with low rotor RPM, causing the tail boom to rise and be severed by the main rotor blades.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Mar 1987 involved a Bell 47G-3B-1, registration N62462, at Odessa, TX.
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