Casualties unknown

2003-08-05: Bell 206B (N9254Y) — Merced, CA

Merced, CA, US

On August 5, 2003, a Bell 206B (registration N9254Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Merced, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's excessive movement of the helicopter's controls during an aborted landing, which resulted in a loss of control (dynamic rollover) and an in-flight collision with terrain. 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 helicopter came to rest on its right side after the pilot attempted to avoid rolling during a landing on a concrete pad at a construction site.

Incident Overview

The pilot reported that the helicopter was landing on a concrete pad at a construction site. The helicopter was not completely positioned on the pad; the aft section of the skids were hanging off the edge. As the pilot lowered the collective, the helicopter rocked backward and the tail rotor skid made contact with the ground.

Sequence of Events

In response to the tail rotor skid touching the ground, the pilot abruptly attempted to pull the helicopter back into a hover. This action caused the helicopter to move forward and start rolling to the right. Despite the pilot's efforts, the rolling movement could not be stopped. The helicopter struck the ground and came to rest on its right side.

Outcome

The final resting position of the helicopter was on its right side. No further details regarding injuries or damage were provided in the pilot's report. The accident occurred during a landing on a concrete pad at a construction site.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030808X01296. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.