Accident Details
Date
Thursday, May 23, 2019
NTSB Number
GAA19CA278
Location
Pittsfield, IL
Event ID
20190523X52004
Coordinates
39.651668, -90.809997
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
1
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from rising terrain during agricultural application operations.
Aircraft Information
Registration
N158H
Make
BELL
Serial Number
2974
Engine Type
Turbo-shaft
Registered Owner (Historical)
Name
ORLANDO AIRCRAFT SALES LLC
Address
235 NILSON WAY
Status
Deregistered
City
ORLANDO
State / Zip Code
FL 32803-6488
Country
United States
Analysis
The helicopter pilot reported that, during his third aerial application pass over a hilly field, he quickly glanced at his instrument inside the cockpit and the helicopter impacted terrain.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the cabin, fuselage, and tailboom.
The Federal Aviation Administration inspector reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter 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# GAA19CA278