On June 13, 1997, a Mcdonnell Douglas MDHC-369E (registration N765KV) was involved in an aviation accident near Okahumpka, FL. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the crewmember to use the necessary safety equipment, and his subsequent fall from an elevated platform. A factor was the crewmember's distraction with an animal. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After power line work, a helicopter crew hovered to watch a wild pig. The crewmember removed his safety harness and subsequently fell from the platform. Investigation found the harness intact.
Event Sequence
Following the completion of power line maintenance, the pilot observed a wild pig moving on the ground below the helicopter. The pilot and a crewmember agreed to hover above the pig for a closer look. The crewmember then removed his safety harness, which is normally worn by power line workers. As the pig entered an area of tall grass, the helicopter gained altitude to continue tracking the animal. While hovering, the pilot heard a noise from the crewmember. Turning, the pilot saw the crewmember fall from the platform.
Investigation
An examination of the safety harness found no signs of failure; it was in good condition. The harness is the type typically used by power line workers.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 13 Jun 1997 Mcdonnell Douglas MDHC-369E accident near Okahumpka, FL?
After power line work, a helicopter crew hovered to watch a wild pig. The crewmember removed his safety harness and subsequently fell from the platform. Investigation found the harness intact.
Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jun 1997 Mcdonnell Douglas MDHC-369E accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Jun 1997 involved a Mcdonnell Douglas MDHC-369E, registration N765KV, at Okahumpka, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure of the crewmember to use the necessary safety equipment, and his subsequent fall from an elevated platform. A factor was the crewmember's distraction with an animal.
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