On August 5, 1988, a Bell 47G3B-1 (registration N6286N) was involved in an aviation accident near Oakland, ME. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While conducting an aerial photography flight at low altitude, a helicopter experienced an unexpected right yaw and loss of tail rotor effectiveness, resulting in a water impact.
Incident Overview
A helicopter engaged in an aerial photography flight was maneuvering at an altitude of 30 feet and an airspeed of 25 miles per hour. While executing a right turn over a lake, the aircraft's nose unexpectedly swung to the right. The pilot reported that upon recognizing the onset of the uncommanded yaw, he realized a loss of tail rotor effectiveness and attempted to accelerate forward using cyclic control inputs. The helicopter subsequently impacted the water.
Flight Maneuvers
Prior to the loss of control, the photographer aboard had captured images of a camp and water skiers. The photographer then requested that the pilot position the helicopter near a boat, over a float. It was during this maneuver that the loss of control occurred.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that his reaction time was limited to recognizing the loss of tail rotor effectiveness and attempting to increase forward speed before the helicopter struck the water. No further details regarding the outcome of the water impact or post-accident events are available from the source.