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.
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%.