Pilot Debrief

BELL 47G-3B-1 near Plover, WI — 2013-07-06

Final reportCEN13LA395
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Date
2013-07-06
Location
Plover, WI, USA
Aircraft
BELL 47G-3B-1
Registration
N7924S
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain proper engine rpm, which resulted in a high rate of descent and ground impact.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the engine was at 3,200 rpm (full power) during takeoff. He completed the last aerial application pass, initiated a climb, and made a 180-degree turn. During the course reversal, the engine power was about 2,000 rpm. He was increasing the power during the rollout when the helicopter descended rapidly and impacted the field. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided the 180-degree turn that led to loss of control.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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