BELL 206 - B11
Caledonia, MI — May 29, 2015
Event Information
| Date | May 29, 2015 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA15CA102 |
| Event ID | 20150602X51758 |
| Location | Caledonia, MI |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 42.82250, -85.49139 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | BELL |
| Model | 206 - B11 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
A loss of tail rotor effectiveness while maneuvering at low altitude, resulting in a collision with trees.
Full Narrative
The pilot and passenger were conducting an aerial observation flight at low altitude to inspect power lines. The pilot stated he maneuvered to do a right turn and encountered a gust of wind. The pilot lost tail rotor effectiveness and attempted to recover control of the helicopter. Before the pilot could regain full control, the helicopter descended into the tree tops and came to rest in a tree. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail boom. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.