On January 3, 2013, a BELL 47G 5A operated by Marquis Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Five Points, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance with a telephone pole during a low-level maneuver. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported that after takeoff, during a descent under powerlines, the helicopter's main rotor blade struck a telephone pole. The helicopter yawed right, impacted the ground, rolled forward, and came to rest on its left side. No mechanical malfunction was reported.
Accident Narrative
After takeoff, the pilot executed a standard turn to align the helicopter with the field intended for spraying. The pilot then initiated a descent under two sets of powerlines. During this descent, the pilot observed a telephone pole to the right. Believing there was sufficient clearance, the pilot continued the approach. However, the pilot subsequently heard and felt the impact of a main rotor blade striking the telephone pole. Following the strike, the helicopter yawed to the right before impacting the ground. The aircraft then rolled forward and came to rest on its left side.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction or failure that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot's account indicates that the rotor blade contact with the telephone pole occurred during the maneuvering phase of the flight.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Jan 2013 BELL 47G 5A accident near Five Points, CA?
A pilot reported that after takeoff, during a descent under powerlines, the helicopter's main rotor blade struck a telephone pole. The helicopter yawed right, impacted the ground, rolled forward, and came to rest on its left side. No mechanical malfunction was reported.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jan 2013 BELL 47G 5A accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jan 2013 involved a BELL 47G 5A, operated by Marquis Aviation, Inc., at Five Points, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance with a telephone pole during a low-level maneuver.