Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary WPR14CA319

Salinas, CA, USA

Aircraft #1

N291SH

BELL 206B

Analysis

Same as Factual Information

Factual Information

The pilot reported that he had landed in a field that had irrigation sprinkler pipes arranged in field rows. During takeoff and forward movement to reposition the helicopter, the right side spray boom caught on one of the sprinkler head risers which resulted in a dynamic rollover of the helicopter to the right. The helicopter came to rest on its right side and sustained substantial damage to the tail boom and damage to the main rotor blades. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the helicopter.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to ensure adequate clearance from ground obstacles during takeoff which resulted in loss of aircraft control.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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