FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Helicopter Damaged in Tree Strike After Loss of Airspeed During Swath Run (N93067)

Loxahatchee, FL, US

On November 2, 1989, a Bell 47D1 (registration N93067) was involved in an aviation accident near Loxahatchee, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN ROTOR RPM AFTER PULLING UP FROM A SWATH RUN. A RELATED FACTOR WAS THE PRESENCE OF TREES. 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

After a swath run, the pilot pulled up to clear trees, but the helicopter lost airspeed faster than expected. Maneuvering to recover, it continued descending and struck trees, resulting in damage.

Incident Overview

The pilot of a helicopter reported that after completing a swath run, he pulled up and held back longer than usual to clear trees at the end of the field. During this maneuver, the helicopter lost airspeed more rapidly than the pilot realized.

Loss of Control

At the top of the turn, the helicopter felt as though it would slide backwards, according to the pilot. In response, he pushed the cyclic forward and applied full power in an attempt to fly out of the situation. Despite these inputs, the helicopter continued to descend.

Impact and Damage

The helicopter subsequently impacted trees and was damaged. No further details about the extent of damage or any injuries were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Nov 1989 Bell 47D1 accident near Loxahatchee, FL?

After a swath run, the pilot pulled up to clear trees, but the helicopter lost airspeed faster than expected. Maneuvering to recover, it continued descending and struck trees, resulting in damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Nov 1989 involved a Bell 47D1, registration N93067, at Loxahatchee, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN ROTOR RPM AFTER PULLING UP FROM A SWATH RUN. A RELATED FACTOR WAS THE PRESENCE OF TREES.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29839. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.