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Helicopter Shifts During Hot Refueling Crew Change, Crashes (N65185)

Near Central, AK, US

On April 18, 1988, an Aerospatiale SA315B (registration N65185) operated by Rocky Mountain Helicopters Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Near Central, AK. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 6 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 helicopter shifted rearward while the pilot attempted to exit during a hot refueling crew change. The pilot re-entered and tried to regain control, but the aircraft lifted off, turned 180 degrees, and crashed. The refueler sustained minor injuries.

Incident Overview

A helicopter accident occurred during a hot refueling operation at a designated landing site. The pilot had landed on a black membrane covered by bundles of laths arranged perpendicular to the skids to prevent punctures. After landing, the pilot set the controls and left the engine and rotor blades running at full rpm while attempting a crew change.

Sequence of Events

While the pilot was exiting the aircraft, the helicopter moved rearward. The pilot quickly returned to the seat, trying to regain control. The helicopter then lifted off, turned 180 degrees, and crashed.

Outcome

The refueler on the ground sustained minor injuries. The helicopter was damaged.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Apr 1988 Aerospatiale SA315B accident near Near Central, AK?

A helicopter shifted rearward while the pilot attempted to exit during a hot refueling crew change. The pilot re-entered and tried to regain control, but the aircraft lifted off, turned 180 degrees, and crashed. The refueler sustained minor injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Apr 1988 Aerospatiale SA315B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Apr 1988 involved an Aerospatiale SA315B, registration N65185, operated by Rocky Mountain Helicopters Inc, at Near Central, AK.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25368. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.