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NTSB Report
January 13, 2008 · Bell 206 B2 · N49588
La Verna, CA
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
January 13, 2008
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
La Verna, CA
Aircraft
Bell 206 B2
Tail Number
N49588
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
SEA08CA059
The pilot reported that the helicopter was in a three-foot hover, moving forward, when control was lost and the helicopter collided with terrain. The pilot reported the left cyclic control was removed prior to the flight; however, the protective cover was not installed. He stated that during the accident flight, test equipment (used for track and balance) "became entangled" at the left cyclic attach point and prevented full cyclic control.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's improper preflight planning which resulted in a jammed cyclic control while maneuvering.
Full Narrative
The commercial pilot and mechanic were conducting a maintenance test flight to facilitate a dynamic track and balance of the main rotor system when the accident occurred. In a written statement, the pilot reported the helicopter was in a three-foot hover, moving forward, when control was lost. The helicopter subsequently collided with terrain resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported the left cyclic control was removed prior to the flight; however, the protective cover was not installed. He stated that during the accident flight, the test equipment (used for track and balance) "became entangled" at the left cyclic attach point and prevented full cyclic control.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time16:15 PST
Nearest AirportBrackett Field (0nm)
RunwayUNK
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBell 206 B2
Tail NumberN49588
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeTurboshaft
Engine DetailsRolls-Royce · 250 C-20B · Turboshaft · 400
Seats5
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 68 · Third Class
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility30 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point0 C
Altimeter0
Weather SourceWFAC