Casualties unknown

Helicopter Tailboom Severed During Forced Landing After Frog Ingestion (N21497)

Venice, LA, US

On October 14, 1996, a Bell 206L-3 (registration N21497) operated by Petroleum Helicopters, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Venice, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of engine power due to frogs being ingested into the engine as a result of the pilots failure to perform a thorough preflight, and the pilot's improper touchdown technique. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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

During takeoff, a helicopter experienced a loud pop and vibration at 50 feet AGL. The pilot initiated a forced landing, during which a main rotor blade severed the tailboom. Operator examination revealed frog ingestion.

Incident Overview

During the takeoff phase of flight, approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot reported hearing a loud pop after which the helicopter became shaky and noisy. The pilot initiated a deceleration maneuver to avoid wires located ahead of the aircraft.

Forced Landing and Tailboom Separation

As the pilot performed the landing, a main rotor blade flexed downward and severed the tailboom from the helicopter. Throughout the forced landing, the pilot maintained tail rotor pedal control, indicating continued directional control capability.

Post-Incident Examination

An examination of the engine conducted by the operator revealed the ingestion of frogs. The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, or any injuries or fatalities.

Operational Context

The incident occurred during daylight conditions, though exact time and location are not detailed. No air traffic control involvement was mentioned in the available information.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Oct 1996 Bell 206L-3 accident near Venice, LA?

During takeoff, a helicopter experienced a loud pop and vibration at 50 feet AGL. The pilot initiated a forced landing, during which a main rotor blade severed the tailboom. Operator examination revealed frog ingestion.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Oct 1996 involved a Bell 206L-3, registration N21497, operated by Petroleum Helicopters, Inc, at Venice, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

a loss of engine power due to frogs being ingested into the engine as a result of the pilots failure to perform a thorough preflight, and the pilot's improper touchdown technique.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06881. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.