Casualties unknown

2007-07-30: Bell 206B (N16757) — Arnold Johnson — Anchorage, AK

Anchorage, AK, US

On July 30, 2007, a Bell 206B (registration N16757) operated by Arnold Johnson was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a light pole during final approach, which resulted in the helicopter striking the pole. 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 commercial pilot struck a 20-foot light pole with a helicopter while positioning for fuel, damaging the chin-bubble and fuselage. No mechanical issues were reported.

Incident Overview

A commercial certificated pilot was repositioning a helicopter from a private landing area to a local airport for fuel under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The pilot stated that while approaching the taxiway at an altitude of about 20 to 30 feet, he spotted a light atop a 20-foot light pole through the left chin-bubble. He reported attempting to avoid the light, but the helicopter struck the light pole, resulting in damage to the chin-bubble and associated fuselage structure.

Pilot Report

The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the helicopter prior to the accident. The flight was conducted under visual flight rules, and the pilot was acting in accordance with his commercial certificate.

Damage Assessment

The accident caused damage to the chin-bubble and the surrounding fuselage structure. No other damage was reported.

Probable Cause

The official investigation source does not provide a stated probable cause for this accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070905X01317. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.