Pilot Debrief

BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON 206L-1 near Chimney Rock, MT — 2026-04-04

Final reportWPR26LA146
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Date
2026-04-04
Location
Chimney Rock, MT, USA
Aircraft
BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON 206L-1
Registration
N5017G
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from the terrain while performing a low altitude circling takeoff maneuver, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.

NTSB narrative

The pilot and pilot-rated passenger were on a personal flight practicing off airport landings. After landing in an open meadow, the pilot elected to depart using a low altitude circling maneuver. The pilot stated the purpose of the maneuver was to gain effective translational lift. During the maneuver, as the helicopter accelerated, it began to descend, and the left skid contacted the terrain, resulting in a dynamic rollover. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, , main rotor system, tail rotor system, and empennage. The pilot stated that they received training in circling takeoff maneuvers during their commercial pilot training and had previously performed similar maneuvers. The pilot reported there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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