BELL 206L-3
White Plains, NY — August 26, 2009
Event Information
| Date | August 26, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | ERA09CA485 |
| Event ID | 20090827X85529 |
| Location | White Plains, NY |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 41.06694, -73.70750 |
| Airport | Westchester County Airport |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | BELL |
| Model | 206L-3 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to disconnect the ground power unit prior to takeoff.
Full Narrative
The pilot stated that during takeoff from a dolly, the helicopter nosed down, contacted the ground, and collapsed the landing skids. Post-accident inspection revealed that the helicopter had not been disconnected from the ground power unit (GPU) prior to take off. The company did not have any written procedures regarding the placement or operation of the GPU. On this flight, the GPU had been placed behind the helicopter due to its "proximity to the taxiway." The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the helicopter.
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.