On August 9, 1992, a Bell 206B (registration N200LT) operated by Harold M. Arbeitman was involved in an aviation accident near St. Charles, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO SEE AND AVOID THE WIRES, AND HIS PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENT DUE TO ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION. A FACTOR WHICH CONTRIBUTED TO THE EFFECT OF THE ALCOHOL IMPAIRMENT WAS THE MEDICINE. 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.
While maneuvering over the Mississippi River, a helicopter collided with unmarked power transmission lines and crashed into the river. Toxicology tests detected a blood alcohol level of 114 mg/dL and the presence of chlorpheniramine and phenylpropanolamine, ingredients found in non-prescription allergy and sinus medicines.
Accident Overview
During a maneuver over the Mississippi River, a helicopter collided with unmarked power transmission lines and subsequently crashed into the river below.
Toxicology Findings
A toxicological examination of the pilot revealed a blood alcohol level of 114 mg/dL. Additionally, the urine tested positive for chlorpheniramine and phenylpropanolamine. This combination of substances is commonly found in non-prescription allergy and sinus headache medications, such as Allerest, Contac, and Chlor-Trimeton. Product warnings on Allerest state that the medication 'may cause drowsiness; alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase the drowsiness effect...Use caution when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery.'
What happened in the 9 Aug 1992 Bell 206B accident near St. Charles, MO?
While maneuvering over the Mississippi River, a helicopter collided with unmarked power transmission lines and crashed into the river. Toxicology tests detected a blood alcohol level of 114 mg/dL and the presence of chlorpheniramine and phenylpropanolamine, ingredients found in non-prescription allergy and sinus…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Aug 1992 involved a Bell 206B, registration N200LT, operated by Harold M. Arbeitman, at St. Charles, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO SEE AND AVOID THE WIRES, AND HIS PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENT DUE TO ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION. A FACTOR WHICH CONTRIBUTED TO THE EFFECT OF THE ALCOHOL IMPAIRMENT WAS THE MEDICINE.
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