On February 11, 2004, a Bell 47-G3B2 (registration N8AG) was involved in an aviation accident near Salome, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate clearance from trees while approaching the landing zone. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter struck a tree while attempting to land after the pilot reported a violent wind gust that caused the aircraft to flip and turn 90 degrees left about 25 feet above ground level.
Incident Overview
A helicopter collided with a tree while attempting to land in a paved area approximately 200 feet wide and 300 feet long, surrounded by trees. The location featured a hill to the north. The pilot had obtained a weather briefing prior to departure, during which the briefer reported turbulent winds in the area but expressed the belief that gusty wind conditions would not occur in the intended landing zone.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, while making the approach at about 25 feet above ground level, a "violent" gust of wind caused the helicopter to turn 90 degrees to the left and flip onto its side. The helicopter subsequently impacted a tree.
Mechanical Condition
The pilot did not report any mechanical problems with the helicopter prior to the accident.