Casualties unknown

2000-06-08: Bell 206B (N49573) — Bridgeport, WA

Bridgeport, WA, US

On June 8, 2000, a Bell 206B (registration N49573) was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgeport, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Aircraft control was not maintained. Inadequate remedial action and diverted attention were factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

After touchdown in a gravel pit refueling area, the pilot opened his door to check tail rotors and skids. When he looked back, the helicopter began rocking. Despite applying forward cyclic, the aircraft rolled onto its left side.

Accident Details

According to the pilot's report, the accident occurred after touching down in a gravel pit that was being used as a refueling staging area. The pilot stated that he opened the door to look to the rear to ensure that the tail rotors were clear of obstructions and that the landing skids made full ground contact. Upon returning his gaze to the cockpit, he observed that the nose of the helicopter was rising and the helicopter was rocking back on the skids.

Pilot Actions

The pilot applied forward cyclic control in response to the nose rising. He then felt the aft end of the landing skids lift off the ground. The pilot does not recall his corrective actions after that point, only that everything was in motion. The sequence of events led to the helicopter rolling over and coming to rest on its left side.

Outcome

The helicopter sustained a rollover, ending up on its left side. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter at the time of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21331. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.