On May 24, 2002, a Bell 47G-4 (registration N1915B) operated by John Farson was involved in an aviation accident near Muncie, IN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot did not maintain directional control during hover taxi. Inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions, the light rain, and the light pole were factors in the accident. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter struck a 27-foot light pole during an off-airport takeoff in light rain, then rolled over and caught fire; the pilot and a passenger exited uninjured.
Accident Details
A helicopter struck a light pole during an off-airport takeoff from a parking lot. The pilot reported that light rain was present as he hover-taxied toward an open area for takeoff to the north. When the helicopter lifted into a hover, wind moved the aircraft to the right. The pilot stated that rain on the windshield obscured his view of a 27-foot-high light pole located ahead and to the right. The main rotor blade struck the light pole approximately six inches from the tip of the blade. Following the impact, the helicopter rolled over and caught fire.
Occupant Status
The pilot and one passenger exited the helicopter without injury.
Environmental Conditions
The wind at the time of the accident was reported as 340 degrees at 13 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 May 2002 Bell 47G-4 accident near Muncie, IN?
A helicopter struck a 27-foot light pole during an off-airport takeoff in light rain, then rolled over and caught fire; the pilot and a passenger exited uninjured.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 May 2002 Bell 47G-4 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 May 2002 involved a Bell 47G-4, registration N1915B, operated by John Farson, at Muncie, IN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot did not maintain directional control during hover taxi. Inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions, the light rain, and the light pole were factors in the accident.
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