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Casualties unknown

Helicopter Strikes Canopy During Night Fuel Stop (N6760D)

Fruitland, MD, US

On July 2, 1989, a Bell 47J (registration N6760D) operated by Marc J. Wood was involved in an aviation accident near Fruitland, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POOR JUDGEMENT OF THE PILOT BY FLYING, WHILE PHYSICALLY IMPAIRED BY ALCOHOL, AND HIS MISJUDGEMENT OF CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE HELICOPTER AND THE STRUCTURE. THE DARK NIGHT AND OBJECT (STRUCTURE) WERE CONSIDERED TO BE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

A helicopter struck a wooden canopy structure while attempting to land at a convenience store to refuel at night. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft crashed onto the pavement.

Accident Overview

A pilot attempted to refuel at an airport but found the fuel pumps closed for the night. He then departed and chose to land at a convenience store that had fuel pumps available.

The Incident

During the night landing, the helicopter contacted a wooden-framed canopy structure covering the fuel pumps. Subsequently, the pilot lost control of the helicopter, which descended and impacted the pavement.

Post-Accident Actions

Approximately one hour after the accident, state police administered a breathalyzer test to the pilot. The test indicated an alcohol level of approximately 0.13%.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Jul 1989 Bell 47J accident near Fruitland, MD?

A helicopter struck a wooden canopy structure while attempting to land at a convenience store to refuel at night. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft crashed onto the pavement.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Jul 1989 involved a Bell 47J, registration N6760D, operated by Marc J. Wood, at Fruitland, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

POOR JUDGEMENT OF THE PILOT BY FLYING, WHILE PHYSICALLY IMPAIRED BY ALCOHOL, AND HIS MISJUDGEMENT OF CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE HELICOPTER AND THE STRUCTURE. THE DARK NIGHT AND OBJECT (STRUCTURE) WERE CONSIDERED TO BE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28738. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.