Casualties unknown

2005-08-17: Bell 206L (N330P) — Gulf OF Mexico

Gulf OF Mexico, US

On August 17, 2005, a Bell 206L (registration N330P) was involved in an aviation accident near Gulf OF Mexico. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with a stationary object while landing. 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 pilot with 2,258 hours landed on an oil platform. After flaring to zero groundspeed and leveling off, the tail rotor struck the helipad's fence/skirting, causing debris. No prior anomalies were noted. The helicopter came to rest facing south.

Approach and Landing

A pilot, with a total flight experience of 2,258 hours, conducted an approach to an oil platform. The intention was to land facing east. Weather conditions at the time were reported as little or no wind.

During the landing sequence, the helicopter crossed the helipad's skirting. The pilot then flared the aircraft, reducing groundspeed to zero. After leveling off the helicopter, a clunk sound was heard, and the pilot observed debris flying.

Tail Rotor Contact

The incident involved the tail rotor making contact with the helipad's fence or skirting. Prior to the contact, no vibrations or abnormal indications were present. The helicopter came to rest in the center of the platform, now oriented south.

No further details regarding the aircraft, occupants, or damage 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/20051020X01701. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.