On May 4, 1995, a Bell 206B (registration N219CT) was involved in an aviation accident near Hamilton, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper decision to fly at night with a night vision deficiency, and his failure to maintain clearance with trees during takeoff, which resulted in an in-flight collision with the trees and the subsequent hard landing. 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 attempting a night takeoff from a tree-surrounded field, a privately owned helicopter's main rotor blades struck trees, leading to a forced landing. The helicopter landed hard and rolled onto its side.
Accident Details
A pilot attempted to take off from a field surrounded by trees at night in his personally owned helicopter. During the initial climb, the main rotor blades struck trees. The pilot then initiated a forced landing. The helicopter landed hard and subsequently rolled over onto its side.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate and had accumulated approximately 60 hours in the make and model of the accident helicopter, with 40 hours as pilot-in-command. His most recent third-class medical certificate was issued three years prior to the accident and carried the restriction: "NOT VALID FOR NIGHT FLYING OR BY COLOR SIGNAL CONTROL."
Aftermath
The helicopter sustained damage from the hard landing and rollover. No further information is available regarding injuries or additional damage.
What happened in the 4 May 1995 Bell 206B accident near Hamilton, MA?
While attempting a night takeoff from a tree-surrounded field, a privately owned helicopter's main rotor blades struck trees, leading to a forced landing. The helicopter landed hard and rolled onto its side.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 May 1995 involved a Bell 206B, registration N219CT, at Hamilton, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's improper decision to fly at night with a night vision deficiency, and his failure to maintain clearance with trees during takeoff, which resulted in an in-flight collision with the trees and the subsequent hard landing.
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