Pilot Debrief

BELL 47G near Bakersfield, CA — 2014-05-18

Final reportWPR14CA196
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Date
2014-05-18
Location
Bakersfield, CA, USA
Airport
BFL
Aircraft
BELL 47G
Registration
N16414
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control after the helicopter's skid catching on the side of a trailer during takeoff, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to move the helicopter off of a trailer onto the ground. As the helicopter began to lift off from the trailer platform, a steel bolt on the landing gear skid caught on the aluminum trailer skirting. The helicopter experienced a dynamic rollover and came to rest on its right side. Shortly thereafter, a fire erupted and the cabin area was consumed. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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