Casualties unknown

2003-10-18: Schweizer 269C (N456JP) — Joseph Duane Brasher — Fenton, MI

Fenton, MI, US

On October 18, 2003, a Schweizer 269C (registration N456JP) operated by Joseph Duane Brasher was involved in an aviation accident near Fenton, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The intentional low altitude flight maneuvering and the ostentatious display by the pilot. The water was a factor to the accident. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

A helicopter struck the water while maneuvering at low altitude after the pilot asked the passenger if they wanted to touch the lake. The passenger declined, but shortly after the skids hit the water and the helicopter sank.

Incident Overview

A helicopter collided with the surface of a lake while the pilot was performing low-level maneuvers. According to the passenger, the pilot had been executing steep bank turns below tree top level. During the flight, the pilot asked the passenger if he wanted to touch the water. The passenger replied, "I don't think so." Shortly thereafter, the helicopter's skids contacted the water, and the aircraft sank instantaneously into the lake.

Passenger Account

The passenger reported that the pilot was engaged in low-level flight maneuvers, including steep bank turns, which occurred below the height of surrounding trees. After the pilot's inquiry about touching the water, the passenger expressed reluctance. Moments later, the skids made contact with the water, leading to the immediate submersion of the helicopter.

Aftermath

No information regarding injuries, fatalities, or the recovery of the helicopter is provided in the source material. The exact location, date, time, and other details such as the aircraft model or registration are not specified.

Probable Cause

The source does not explicitly state a probable cause for the accident. It only notes that the helicopter collided with the water while maneuvering, and describes the events leading up to the collision.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031020X01776. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.