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Casualties unknown

Helicopter Rolls Over After Evasive Maneuver Near Power Line (N7104J)

Welsh, LA, US

On October 16, 1997, a Bell 47G-4A (registration N7104J) was involved in an aviation accident near Welsh, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter, while maneuvering to avoid an obstruction. The abrupt maneuver was a related factor. 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 conducting herbicide application rolled over after the pilot performed a hard cyclic turn to avoid a perceived power line adjacent to a road.

Incident Overview

A helicopter was engaged in applying herbicide while flying in a northeast direction. The pilot observed a road running east to west ahead of the flight path. As the helicopter approached the road, the pilot sensed that a power line was running adjacent to it. In response, the pilot immediately executed a hard cyclic turn to the right.

Sequence of Events

Following the evasive maneuver, the helicopter settled with a slight nose-low attitude into heavy brush. Upon contacting the ground, the helicopter rolled over. The main rotor blades struck the ground during the rollover, and the helicopter came to rest on its left side.

Aircraft and Operational Details

The specific type of helicopter, registration, operator, and location of the incident were not disclosed in the source material. The operation involved aerial herbicide application, and the pilot's action was prompted by the perception of a power line near the road.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Oct 1997 Bell 47G-4A accident near Welsh, LA?

A helicopter conducting herbicide application rolled over after the pilot performed a hard cyclic turn to avoid a perceived power line adjacent to a road.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Oct 1997 involved a Bell 47G-4A, registration N7104J, at Welsh, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter, while maneuvering to avoid an obstruction. The abrupt maneuver was a related factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09022. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.