BELL 47G-3B-2
Ocean Shores, WA — July 7, 2009
Event Information
| Date | July 7, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR09CA331 |
| Event ID | 20090707X11845 |
| Location | Ocean Shores, WA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 47.00222, -124.13944 |
| Airport | Ocean Shores Municipal Airport |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | BELL |
| Model | 47G-3B-2 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 137 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAWN |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the water while maneuvering due to the pilot's diverted attention.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that while maneuvering low over the harbor for an aerial application flight he directed his attention inside of the helicopter to program the global positioning system (GPS). Subsequently, the helicopter impacted the water in a level upright position. Despite the pilot's control inputs the engine lost power and the helicopter slowly started to settle and roll onto its left side. The helicopter's main rotor blades, tail rotor blades, and the main rotor head assembly were damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter's flight control system or engine prior to the accident.
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.