Casualties unknown

2004-06-25: Bell 206B (N97AZ) — Ned K. Buher — Mesa, AZ

Mesa, AZ, US

On June 25, 2004, a Bell 206B (registration N97AZ) operated by Ned K. Buher was involved in an aviation accident near Mesa, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to adequately clear the left skid of obstacles resulting in a dynamic rollover of the helicopter and collision with terrain. A factor in the accident was the dark nighttime lighting conditions. 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 experienced a dynamic rollover and impacted terrain after its left skid caught on a tie-down ring during takeoff from a modified boat trailer.

Incident Overview

The helicopter experienced a dynamic rollover and impacted terrain during an attempted takeoff from a parked trailer. According to a pilot acquaintance of the pilot, the trailer was a modified boat trailer with an open, trough-shaped platform surrounded by "D" shaped tie down rings. The acquaintance did not think the trailer was suitable for safe takeoff and landing operations.

Sequence of Events

Earlier in the day, the pilot made several unsuccessful attempts to land the helicopter on the recently purchased trailer. The pilot then opted to land on the runway surface next to the trailer. After obtaining fuel, the pilot decided to make an additional attempt to land on the trailer in dark night conditions. Witnesses observed the helicopter land on the trailer.

The Accident

Shortly after touchdown, the pilot attempted to depart the trailer platform. As the helicopter lifted off, the left skid caught on one of the numerous "D" shaped rings affixed to the platform surface of the trailer. The helicopter then experienced a dynamic rollover and collided with the ground.

Observations

No further details regarding aircraft type, registration, injuries, or environmental conditions were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040629X00884. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.