N206ED

Substantial
None

BELL 206 - B11S/N: 1958

Accident Details

Date
Friday, May 29, 2015
NTSB Number
GAA15CA102
Location
Caledonia, MI
Event ID
20150602X51758
Coordinates
42.822498, -85.491386
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

A loss of tail rotor effectiveness while maneuvering at low altitude, resulting in a collision with trees.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N206ED
Make
BELL
Serial Number
1958
Engine Type
Turbo-shaft
Year Built
1976
Model / ICAO
206 - B11B06
Aircraft Type
Rotorcraft
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
HAWKEYE HELICOPTER LLC
Address
27592 PRESSONVILLE RD
Status
Deregistered
City
WELLSVILLE
State / Zip Code
KS 66092-8435
Country
United States

Analysis

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.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA15CA102