Casualties unknown

1991-05-29: Bell UH-1B (N9650N) — Colony Services, Inc. — Lake Seminole, GA

Lake Seminole, GA, US

On May 29, 1991, a Bell UH-1B (registration N9650N) operated by Colony Services, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Seminole, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN CLEARANCE FROM THE SURFACE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter conducting low-level river observation for aquatic plant management struck the water after the pilot briefly looked away. The pilot and passenger exited the submerged helicopter.

Background

The helicopter was being used for aerial observation of aquatic plants that had been previously sprayed. The mission involved flying at low level along a river.

Flight Details

The pilot executed a dawn takeoff and proceeded along the river at a low altitude. During the flight, he glanced at the observer and then looked forward again. He did not see any obstruction, but felt a bump, and the helicopter struck the river surface.

Post-Impact

Following the impact, the pilot and his passenger exited the helicopter while it was underwater. No further information regarding injuries, damage, or subsequent events was provided in the initial report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16921. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.