Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary NYC06CA173

Petersburg, WV, USA

Aircraft #1

N6738D

Bell 47G-2

Analysis

As the helicopter climbed to about 15-20 feet during a hover, the pilot felt that "something was pushing the helicopter." Shortly thereafter, the helicopter began to descend and the rotor RPM began to decrease. The pilot initiated a precautionary landing, during which the passenger inadvertently pushed on the rudder pedals. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control, and the helicopter rolled onto its side as it touched down.

Factual Information

As the Bell 47G-2 climbed to about 15-20 feet during a hover, the pilot felt that "something was pushing the helicopter." Shortly thereafter, the helicopter began to descend and the rotor RPM began to decrease. The pilot initiated a precautionary landing, during which the passenger inadvertently pushed on the rudder pedals. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control, and the helicopter rolled onto its side as it touched down.

Probable Cause and Findings

The passenger's inadvertent interference with the flight controls, which resulted in a loss of directional control and subsequent impact with the ground.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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