On November 2, 1995, a Bell 47G-4A (registration N99138) operated by Z Fishing Company was involved in an aviation accident near Pacific Ocean, PO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to maintain lateral control of the helicopter, while hovering in preparation for a precautionary landing next to a ship at sea. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter performing fish spotting from a fishing vessel experienced a hydraulic failure after liftoff, leading to a controlled water landing near the ship. The helicopter rolled over and sank when a spotter jumped out without permission, causing imbalance and loss of control.
Incident
A helicopter operating from a fishing vessel during a fish spotting mission suffered a hydraulic failure shortly after lifting off from the ship. The pilot reported the failure and noted that the sea conditions were high, making it unsafe to attempt a return to the pitching and rolling deck without hydraulic assistance. Consequently, the pilot decided to land the float-equipped helicopter on the water adjacent to the vessel.
While the helicopter was hovering just above the water surface, the spotter on board unexpectedly jumped out without the pilot's authorization. This sudden action caused an imbalance in the aircraft, leading to a loss of control. The helicopter subsequently rolled over, struck the water, and sank.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Nov 1995 Bell 47G-4A accident near Pacific Ocean, PO?
A helicopter performing fish spotting from a fishing vessel experienced a hydraulic failure after liftoff, leading to a controlled water landing near the ship. The helicopter rolled over and sank when a spotter jumped out without permission, causing imbalance and loss of control.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Nov 1995 Bell 47G-4A accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Nov 1995 involved a Bell 47G-4A, registration N99138, operated by Z Fishing Company, at Pacific Ocean, PO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
failure of the pilot to maintain lateral control of the helicopter, while hovering in preparation for a precautionary landing next to a ship at sea. Factors relating to the accident were: the passenger's premature evacuation from the helicopter, and the resultant lateral imbalance of the helicopter as the passenger…
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