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Helicopter Encounters Wind Gust and Comes to Rest in Pond (N6SR)

Edinburg, TX, US

On October 3, 1995, a Bell 47G-4A (registration N6SR) was involved in an aviation accident near Edinburg, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper takeoff planning which resulted in the loss of conrol. A factor was the gusty crosswind condition. 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 experienced a wind gust while transitioning forward, causing a roll and pitch down, resulting in the right skid contacting water and the aircraft resting in a pond.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, the helicopter had lifted off from a flat bed trailer and was hovering at a height of 6 feet. As the helicopter transitioned forward at approximately 20 knots indicated airspeed and at an estimated height of 15 to 20 feet above ground level, it encountered a 30 knot wind gust from approximately 60 to 80 degrees off the left side.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft subsequently rolled to the right, the nose pitched down, and the right skid contacted the water. The helicopter came to rest in a pond in approximately 3-1/2 feet of water.

Conclusion

The incident involved a helicopter that, during a forward transition, encountered a wind gust that led to a loss of control and contact with the water surface.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Oct 1995 Bell 47G-4A accident near Edinburg, TX?

A helicopter experienced a wind gust while transitioning forward, causing a roll and pitch down, resulting in the right skid contacting water and the aircraft resting in a pond.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Oct 1995 involved a Bell 47G-4A, registration N6SR, at Edinburg, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper takeoff planning which resulted in the loss of conrol. A factor was the gusty crosswind condition.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04688. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.