Pilot Debrief

BELL-TELLIJOHN 47G near Hastings, MN — 2017-06-15

Final reportCEN17LA232
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Date
2017-06-15
Location
Hastings, MN, USA
Aircraft
BELL-TELLIJOHN 47G
Registration
N90529
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain helicopter control for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination of the helicopter did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB narrative

After completing an agricultural application flight, the commercial pilot lost control of the helicopter, which subsequently impacted a field in a nose-low attitude. The pilot shut down the engine after the accident occurred. Postaccident examination of the helicopter wreckage did not reveal any preimpact anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The control rods were found fractured and exhibited damage consistent with overload. The pilot did not report why he lost control of the helicopter.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have initiated a precautionary landing before engine shutdown.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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