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Casualties unknown

Tail Rotor Strikes Ground During Evasive Maneuver to Avoid Utility Lines (N6356)

Bartow, FL, US

On July 9, 1996, a Bell 47G (registration N6356) was involved in an aviation accident near Bartow, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate visual lookout, and his failure to maintain ground clearance, while maneuvering to avoid a collision with a utility line. 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 pilot performing low-altitude alligator nest surveys executed a quick stop to avoid utility lines, causing the tail rotor to strike the ground. No mechanical issues were reported.

Background

The flight was conducted to survey alligator nests along a canal. According to the pilot, the aircraft was flying at an altitude between 50 and 100 feet, at approximately 35 miles per hour, following the canal.

Incident

During the flight, the passenger alerted the pilot to utility lines crossing the intended route. In response, the pilot performed a quick stop maneuver to avoid a collision with the lines. As the aircraft decelerated, the tail rotor assembly made contact with the ground. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the aircraft.

Pilot's Comments

The pilot noted that improved scanning techniques and flying at a slightly higher altitude might have prevented the occurrence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jul 1996 Bell 47G accident near Bartow, FL?

A pilot performing low-altitude alligator nest surveys executed a quick stop to avoid utility lines, causing the tail rotor to strike the ground. No mechanical issues were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jul 1996 involved a Bell 47G, registration N6356, at Bartow, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate visual lookout, and his failure to maintain ground clearance, while maneuvering to avoid a collision with a utility line.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06154. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.