On May 11, 1991, a Bell 47-G (registration N955B) operated by Esteves, Arturo was involved in an aviation accident near Aguadilla, PR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE IMPROPER IN FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND TO CONDUCT AN OUT-OF-GROUND-EFFECT HOVER WITH A RIGHT CROSSWIND. THIS RESULTED IN AN IN FLIGHT LOSS OF CONTROL DUE TO SETTLING WITH POWER AND IN FLIGHT COLLISION WITH TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
NTSB and Coast Guard observers saw a helicopter hover with a right crosswind, then descend backwards with a slow left turn before colliding with terrain and burning. The pilot and two passengers were uninjured.
Observation
An NTSB investigator and a U.S. Coast Guard pilot observed a helicopter conducting an out-of-ground-effect hover with a right crosswind in the vicinity of a previous crash site. The helicopter was seen to move backwards while descending with a slow left turn. Witnesses heard the engine RPM increase as the helicopter descended and subsequently collided with terrain. The helicopter was destroyed by fire.
Pilot's Account
During an interview, the commercial pilot stated that he encountered settling with power. He further stated that he was unable to increase the throttle. However, this claim was not substantiated by eyewitnesses, who reported hearing an increase in engine RPM prior to the collision with terrain.
Occupants and Damage
The commercial pilot and two passengers were not injured. The helicopter was destroyed by the post-impact fire.
Investigation
The NTSB is investigating the accident. The helicopter was observed by agency personnel at the scene.