On March 17, 1999, an Eurocopter AS-350-B2 (registration N197EH) was involved in an aviation accident near Girdwood, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudged flare while landing. Factors associated with the accident were whiteout conditions, and snow-covered terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot became disoriented in whiteout conditions while hovering, causing the helicopter to drift, strike the snow with its skid, and roll onto its side. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Incident Overview
A commercial pilot reported that the accident helicopter was being used to transport skiers to a remote ski area. The day before the event, the area had received approximately 6 inches of very light, powder snow. Just prior to the accident, the pilot had transported a group of photographers to the top of the mountain and was returning to the base to pick up the next group of skiers.
Sequence of Events
As the helicopter hovered toward the landing area, the pilot became disoriented in whiteout conditions and lost all visual reference due to blowing snow. The helicopter subsequently drifted to the right. The right skid struck the snow, causing the helicopter to roll onto its right side.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage, tail boom, and drive train components.