On September 13, 1994, a Bell 47D1 WASP (registration N908B) operated by Valley Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Hazel Green, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: UNDETERMINED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During departure from an aerial application loading area, an undetermined malfunction prompted the pilot to abort takeoff. The helicopter made a slide-on landing but rolled over when the spray boom caught in crops and the right skid collapsed. Engine examination found no anomalies.
Accident Details
The operator reported that during departure from the aerial application loading area, an undetermined malfunction occurred. The pilot aborted the takeoff and executed a slide-on landing to the grassy area between the runway and adjacent crops. As the helicopter slid to a stop, the spray boom became caught in the crops, causing the right skid to collapse. The helicopter subsequently rolled over.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the engine was examined thoroughly, and no anomalies were found. The density altitude at the time of the accident was reported as 2,300 feet. No further details about the nature of the malfunction or the specific aircraft configuration were provided in the source.
What happened in the 13 Sept 1994 Bell 47D1 WASP accident near Hazel Green, AL?
During departure from an aerial application loading area, an undetermined malfunction prompted the pilot to abort takeoff. The helicopter made a slide-on landing but rolled over when the spray boom caught in crops and the right skid collapsed. Engine examination found no anomalies.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Sept 1994 involved a Bell 47D1 WASP, registration N908B, operated by Valley Flying Service, at Hazel Green, AL.
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