FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Helicopter Fire During Post-Landing Engine Cool-Down (N23947)

Hayden, AL, US

On September 9, 2006, a Bell 47G-2 (registration N23947) was involved in an aviation accident near Hayden, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: engine fire for reasons undetermined. 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 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter caught fire while the engine was cooling after an uneventful landing in a pasture. The pilot escaped but the aircraft was destroyed, and the fire's origin could not be determined due to extensive damage.

Incident Overview and Pilot Account A pilot reported that he had completed an uneventful landing in his pasture and was allowing the helicopter's engine to cool down before shutting it off. According to the pilot, one minute into the cool-down period, he reduced the throttle to 1,700 rpm. He then felt heat on his back and turned around to see fire coming from the engine. As the pilot attempted to egress from the helicopter, he fell backwards, grabbed the cyclic stick while the engine was still running, and pulled it to the left side as he slid out. The helicopter was entirely consumed by fire. Due to the extent of the damage, the origin of the fire could not be determined.

In-flight fire & smoke

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Sept 2006 Bell 47G-2 accident near Hayden, AL?

A helicopter caught fire while the engine was cooling after an uneventful landing in a pasture. The pilot escaped but the aircraft was destroyed, and the fire's origin could not be determined due to extensive damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Sept 2006 involved a Bell 47G-2, registration N23947, at Hayden, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

engine fire for reasons undetermined.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20061010X01491. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.