Casualties unknown

Helicopter Encounters Clouds, Experiences Yaw and Hard Landing (N16712)

Hilo, HI, US

On November 9, 1991, a Bell 206B (registration N16712) operated by Kona Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Hilo, HI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE INADVERTENT ENCOUNTER WITH A LOSS OF TAIL ROTOR EFFECTIVENESS PHENOMENA AND THE RESULTANT PILOT INFLIGHT LOSS OF CONTROL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter flying over a mountain saddle pass encountered rapidly closing clouds. While attempting to turn around, the aircraft entered an uncommanded right rotation. The pilot could not correct the yaw and performed a hard landing from about 6 feet.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's statement, the helicopter was flying over a saddle pass in a mountain area when the flight encountered clouds that rapidly closed down on and around the aircraft. The pilot reported that she had no choice but to slow down and attempt to turn around without entering the low clouds that were moving in.

Pilot Actions

As the helicopter slowed, it suddenly began to rotate to the right. The pilot was unable to correct the yaw with left pedal input. After three revolutions, the low rotor RPM horn sounded. The pilot stated that she felt the helicopter control diminish and elected to put the helicopter down on the ground. At an altitude of about 6 feet, the pilot lowered the collective and the helicopter landed hard in a level attitude.

Outcome

The helicopter landed hard in a level attitude. The pilot's statement does not specify any injuries or damage resulting from the landing.

All Bell 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Nov 1991 Bell 206B accident near Hilo, HI?

A helicopter flying over a mountain saddle pass encountered rapidly closing clouds. While attempting to turn around, the aircraft entered an uncommanded right rotation. The pilot could not correct the yaw and performed a hard landing from about 6 feet.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Nov 1991 involved a Bell 206B, registration N16712, operated by Kona Helicopters, at Hilo, HI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE INADVERTENT ENCOUNTER WITH A LOSS OF TAIL ROTOR EFFECTIVENESS PHENOMENA AND THE RESULTANT PILOT INFLIGHT LOSS OF CONTROL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18472. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.