On 20 Apr 2013, a BELL 206B operated by REEDER FLYING SERVICE was involved in an aviation accident near Wells, NV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from an obstacle while maneuvering at a low altitude. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While flying low over hilly terrain to place mining claim stakes, a helicopter pilot experienced a shudder and vibration, then autorotated to a landing. Post-flight inspection revealed tail rotor and driveshaft damage, attributed to striking a bush.
Accident Sequence
The pilot was flying a helicopter to specific locations within hilly sage and brush covered terrain. The passenger was setting mining claim stakes at intervals of 300, 600, and 1,500 feet. The pilot typically conducted movement between locations at a low altitude. As the helicopter flew over the crest of a hill, the pilot felt a shudder and subsequent vibration. He then initiated an autorotation to an open field, which was uneventful.
Post-Accident Inspection
After landing, the pilot noticed damage to the tailrotor and tailrotor drive shaft. During recovery of the helicopter, the pilot located a bush with several broken branches within the flight path. The pilot believed that the tailrotor struck the bush while maneuvering. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.