Casualties unknown

2005-06-19: Bell 47G-3B-1 (N8554F) — Brewster, WA

Brewster, WA, US

On June 19, 2005, a Bell 47G-3B-1 (registration N8554F) was involved in an aviation accident near Brewster, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's foot slipped off the right anti-torque pedal while turning left, causing inadvertent left anti-torque pedal application and a left spin that resulted in tree contact and a rollover. 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

During a slow left turn 6–8 feet above trees, a pilot's foot slipped off the right anti-torque pedal, causing inadvertent left pedal input. The helicopter spun, struck trees with its skid, and rolled onto its right side, suffering major structural damage.

Accident Details

The pilot reported that he was conducting a slow hover at an altitude of approximately 6 to 8 feet above the trees. While executing a left turn, his foot slipped off the right anti-torque pedal. This resulted in his left foot applying the left anti-torque pedal, which caused the helicopter to begin an uncommanded spin to the left.

Sequence of Events

As the helicopter spun left, its skid landing gear contacted the surrounding trees. The helicopter then descended to the ground and rolled onto its right side. The impact was severe enough that the transmission, mast, and main rotor system were torn from the helicopter as a single unit. The tail boom was severed, and the center frame sustained structural damage.

Aircraft Damage

The helicopter sustained extensive damage, including the loss of the main rotor system and transmission assembly, separation of the tail boom, and structural damage to the center frame. No other details about the aircraft or its occupants were provided in the source.

Probable cause

The pilot's foot slipped off the right anti-torque pedal while turning left, causing inadvertent left anti-torque pedal application and a left spin that resulted in tree contact and a rollover.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050628X00891. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.