Pilot Debrief

BELL 47G-3B-1 near Maplewood, MN — 2013-06-19

Final reportCEN13FA357
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Date
2013-06-19
Location
Maplewood, MN, USA
Aircraft
BELL 47G-3B-1
Registration
N5024N
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The loss of helicopter control for reasons that could not be determined because an examination of the helicopter and its systems revealed no malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter had completed aerial applications at two designated locations without incident. Recorded GPS data and witness information indicated that the helicopter then travelled north at a low altitude to another location. Witnesses observed the helicopter rolling or banking left and descending. The helicopter subsequently impacted a residential garage and terrain. A postimpact fire destroyed the helicopter's forward section and a majority of its control system components. An examination of the helicopter and its systems revealed no malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operations. The helicopter was below the allowable maximum gross weight. The reason of the loss of helicopter control could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided maneuvering too low near residential areas.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents21

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