On October 31, 1991, a Bell 47-G5A (registration N7162R) operated by Don Juan Z Fishing Co. was involved in an aviation accident near Kosrae. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT INSPECTION OF THE HELICOPTER RESULTING IN A TIEDOWN STRAP NOT BEING REMOVED FROM THE RIGHT SKID AND SUBSEQUENT ROLL OVER ON TAKEOFF. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter attempting to lift off from the fishing vessel Don Juan Z rolled left, struck the starboard side, and overturned into the ocean. A tiedown remained attached to the right skid.
Accident Details
On an unspecified date at 0955 local ship time, a helicopter attempted to lift off from the helipad of the fishing vessel Don Juan Z. According to the chief officer of the vessel, the helicopter suddenly rolled to the left, crashed into the starboard side of the ship, and then rolled into the ocean inverted.
Witness Accounts
The helicopter mechanic assigned to the ship reported that the starboard tiedown was still attached to the right skid of the helicopter as it tried to lift off. No further details were provided regarding the condition of the helicopter, the vessel, or any persons involved.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Oct 1991 Bell 47-G5A accident near Kosrae?
A helicopter attempting to lift off from the fishing vessel Don Juan Z rolled left, struck the starboard side, and overturned into the ocean. A tiedown remained attached to the right skid.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Oct 1991 involved a Bell 47-G5A, registration N7162R, operated by Don Juan Z Fishing Co., at Kosrae.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT INSPECTION OF THE HELICOPTER RESULTING IN A TIEDOWN STRAP NOT BEING REMOVED FROM THE RIGHT SKID AND SUBSEQUENT ROLL OVER ON TAKEOFF.
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