Pilot Debrief

BELL 47G-4A near Mayville, WI — 2008-07-24

Final reportCHI08LA211
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Date
2008-07-24
Location
Mayville, WI, USA
Aircraft
BELL 47G-4A
Registration
N24HM
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the rotating rotor blades after he exited the helicopter after landing.

NTSB narrative

A witness heard the engine running rough when the agricultural application helicopter took off, adjacent to the field that was going to be sprayed. The pilot then landed the helicopter in the field which had tall vegetation and uneven terrain. The left skid separated during landing resulting in the helicopter resting left side low. The pilot then exited and walked around the helicopter when he was struck by the rotating main rotor blades and was fatally injuried. Examination of the engine revealed an exhaust valve that displayed excessive wear which would result in the engine running rough due to the valve sticking. Logbook records show that the engine and parts manufacturer approval (PMA) manufacturer's recommended maintenance had not been performed.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have waited for rotor blades to stop before exiting the helicopter.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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