Casualties unknown

2001-01-08: Bell 206B (N152AL) — Mineral Wells, TX

Mineral Wells, TX, US

On January 8, 2001, a Bell 206B (registration N152AL) was involved in an aviation accident near Mineral Wells, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. 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

A witness loading topsoil observed a helicopter impact the ground, nose over, and come to rest inverted 30 feet away. The witness did not hear the engine running before impact. Subsequent engine testing revealed no anomalies.

Incident Overview

A helicopter conducting a local area flight impacted the ground and came to rest inverted. A witness, who was loading topsoil into a truck using a Caterpillar loader, provided a firsthand account. The witness first noticed a shadow passing overhead and heard the noise of rotor blades. Turning around, they observed the helicopter strike the ground, nose over, and come to rest inverted approximately 30 feet from their location. The witness also stated that they did not hear the engine running.

Examination and Testing

Following the accident, the engine was removed from the helicopter and subjected to a test run lasting about 47 minutes. During this test, the engine was operated through various power settings, and no anomalies were noted. Further detailed examination of the main fuel control and power turbine governor also revealed no anomalies.

Investigation Status

The investigation into the accident is ongoing. No further information regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or occupants has been disclosed. The cause of the accident has not been determined based on available information.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010111X00287. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.