Casualties unknown

EMS Helicopter Incident Following Encounter with Instrument Meteorological Conditions (N2777W)

Ware, IL, US

On September 20, 1995, a Bell 206L (registration N2777W) was involved in an aviation accident near Ware, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter. A factor in the accident was the pilot's inadvertent VFR flight into IMC conditions. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An EMS helicopter pilot lost control after encountering IMC during an aborted flight due to clouds. The pilot was unable to transition to instruments before impact.

Incident Overview

An emergency medical service helicopter was involved in an accident shortly after takeoff. The pilot reported that, soon after departure, the helicopter flew through what he described as 'small scuddy clouds.' In response, the pilot decided to abort the flight and initiated a left turn. During the turn, the helicopter entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).

Pilot Actions

The pilot stated that he attempted to transition to instrument flight, but was unable to complete the transition before losing control of the helicopter. Despite efforts to regain control, the pilot was unsuccessful prior to ground impact.

Flight Details

The flight was an emergency medical service operation. The specific aircraft type, registration, operator, and location have not been disclosed in the source material. The time of day and weather conditions beyond the pilot's description of 'small scuddy clouds' are not specified.

Aftermath

The outcome of the incident, including any injuries or damage, is not detailed in the available information. The investigation continues to focus on the events leading up to the loss of control.

All Bell 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Sept 1995 Bell 206L accident near Ware, IL?

An EMS helicopter pilot lost control after encountering IMC during an aborted flight due to clouds. The pilot was unable to transition to instruments before impact.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Sept 1995 involved a Bell 206L, registration N2777W, at Ware, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter. A factor in the accident was the pilot's inadvertent VFR flight into IMC conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04464. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.