2 fatalities

Helicopter Disappears Near Ship During Fish Spotting Mission (N4712R)

Pacific Ocean, PO, US

On March 1, 1994, a Bell 206A (registration N4712R) operated by L & M Offshore Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Pacific Ocean, PO. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: undetermined. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter disappeared from radar while returning to its ship after a fish spotting mission. Search teams found emergency float system parts and the bodies of the pilot and spotter.

Incident Overview

A helicopter completing a fish spotting mission disappeared from the ship's radar approximately 3 miles short of the vessel while returning. No distress calls were reported before the disappearance.

Search and Recovery

A search of the area around the last known position of the helicopter revealed parts of an emergency float system known to have been installed on the helicopter, along with the bodies of the pilot and spotter. No additional aircraft components were found.

Personnel Information

The pilot was a Panamanian citizen who reportedly held a pilot certificate issued by the Republic of Panama. The fish spotter was a Mexican national who has not been identified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Mar 1994 Bell 206A accident near Pacific Ocean, PO?

A helicopter disappeared from radar while returning to its ship after a fish spotting mission. Search teams found emergency float system parts and the bodies of the pilot and spotter.

Were there any fatalities in the 1 Mar 1994 Bell 206A accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Mar 1994 involved a Bell 206A, registration N4712R, operated by L & M Offshore Corporation, at Pacific Ocean, PO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

undetermined.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00943. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.