Casualties unknown

1992-08-21: Bell 47G-3B-1 (N203SD) — Rainbow Plastics, Inc. — Marshall, IN

Marshall, IN, US

On August 21, 1992, a Bell 47G-3B-1 (registration N203SD) operated by Rainbow Plastics, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Marshall, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE HELICOPTER DUE TO HIS ALCOHOLIC IMPAIRMENT OF EFFICIENCY AND JUDGEMENT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

During a demonstration of corn pollination, a helicopter pulled up sharply and turned left at the end of a field, then instantly impacted the ground. Toxicology tests showed the pilot had a blood alcohol level of 215 mg/dL and cannabinoids in his urine.

Incident Overview

A passenger reported that the pilot was demonstrating how the helicopter was used to pollinate corn. The demonstration occurred approximately 25 feet above ground level over a crop field. At the end of the field, the pilot executed a sharp pull-up at a steep angle combined with a left turn. The helicopter then immediately struck the terrain.

Pilot Toxicology

The pilot's emergency toxicology screening revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 215 mg/dL. Additionally, a positive result for cannabinoid was detected in the pilot's urine. No other details regarding the pilot's condition or the circumstances of the flight were provided in the investigation source.

Operational Context

The flight was conducted as a demonstration of agricultural pollination techniques. The helicopter was operating at low altitude over a cultivated field during the maneuver. The specific type of helicopter, registration, and other operational details were not included in the source material.

Outcome

The helicopter sustained impact damage upon striking the terrain. Information about injuries, fatalities, or other consequences was not stated in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15371. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.