On May 19, 1988, a Bell 47G-2 (registration N4690) was involved in an aviation accident near MC Dougal, AR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter conducting rice field spraying experienced a spray nozzle malfunction; while attempting to land, the main rotor blades struck a tree, severing the tail boom, leading to a loss of control and impact with terrain. No mechanical issues were found post-crash.
Accident Narrative
The pilot reported that the accident occurred shortly after beginning a rice field spraying operation. One of the spray nozzles malfunctioned, prompting the pilot to attempt a landing on the ground to address the issue. During the landing attempt, the main rotor blades made contact with a tree. The impact caused the rotor blades to sever the tail boom from the helicopter. Subsequently, the helicopter lost control and impacted the terrain.
Post-Crash Inspection
A post-crash examination of the helicopter was conducted. No mechanical malfunction was discovered during this inspection.