Accident Overview
On September 26, 2024, at approximately 1540 Pacific daylight time, a Bell 206L helicopter, registration N9984K, was substantially damaged during an accident near Fern Prairie, Washington. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, reported no injuries. The helicopter was being operated as a repositioning flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Flight Details
The pilot stated that he had departed from a remote landing zone and was en route to Fly JLA Airport (OR72) in Boring, Oregon. While cruising at an altitude of about 1,000 feet above ground level, the helicopter suddenly experienced a "severe vertical hop" and began shaking violently. In response, the pilot initiated an emergency descent, during which the shaking subsided. He then performed a normal landing in an open field.
Damage and Aftermath
After exiting the helicopter, the pilot observed substantial damage to the helicopter's tail boom. The aircraft was subsequently retained for further examination by authorities. The investigation is ongoing.