Casualties unknown

Bell 206L Helicopter Accident Following Downwind Takeoff and Overweight Condition (N120RM)

Port Washington, NY, US

On June 5, 1987, a Bell 206L (registration N120RM) operated by Paramont Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Port Washington, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot made a downwind takeoff with the aircraft loaded more than 100 pounds over the maximum allowable gross takeoff weight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

A Bell 206L helicopter, loaded over 100 pounds above maximum gross takeoff weight, experienced low rotor RPM during a downwind takeoff and noise abatement procedure, resulting in a forced landing short of the pad.

Incident

A Bell 206L helicopter was involved in an accident after the pilot conducted a downwind takeoff with the aircraft exceeding the maximum allowable gross takeoff weight by more than 100 pounds.

Flight Sequence

While climbing through approximately 100 feet above ground level, and while complying with noise abatement takeoff procedures, the pilot observed decreasing main rotor RPM and heard a low rotor RPM warning horn. In response, the pilot attempted to maneuver the helicopter back to the landing pad. The helicopter landed approximately 200 feet short of the intended landing area.

Outcome

Upon touchdown, the helicopter struck a parked car and came to rest on its left side.

Probable cause

The pilot made a downwind takeoff with the aircraft loaded more than 100 pounds over the maximum allowable gross takeoff weight.

All Bell 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Jun 1987 Bell 206L accident near Port Washington, NY?

A Bell 206L helicopter, loaded over 100 pounds above maximum gross takeoff weight, experienced low rotor RPM during a downwind takeoff and noise abatement procedure, resulting in a forced landing short of the pad.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Jun 1987 involved a Bell 206L, registration N120RM, operated by Paramont Aviation, at Port Washington, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot made a downwind takeoff with the aircraft loaded more than 100 pounds over the maximum allowable gross takeoff weight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31305. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.