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May 1, 2013 · Bell Helicopter Textron 206L-1 · N1171

Anaktuvuk Pass, AK

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 1, 2013
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Anaktuvuk Pass, AK
Aircraft
Bell Helicopter Textron 206L-1
Tail Number
N1171
Operator
Pathfinder Aviation
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC13CA041

The commercial helicopter pilot reported that while flying over an area of flat and featureless, snow-covered terrain, deteriorating weather conditions with low ceilings, light snow, and flat light conditions reduced his visibility, so he elected to make a precautionary landing to wait for improved visibility. He said that while attempting to land, blowing snow from the main rotor downwash reduced his ability to discern topographical features on the snow-covered terrain. During touchdown, the helicopter drifted to the left, the left skid struck the snow-covered terrain, and the helicopter rolled onto its left side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the rotor system, tail boom, and fuselage. The operator reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain lateral control while hovering over an area of snow-covered terrain, in flat light conditions, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.

Full Narrative

The commercial helicopter pilot reported that while flying over an area of flat and featureless, snow-covered terrain, deteriorating weather conditions with low ceilings, light snow, and flat light conditions reduced his visibility, so he elected to make a precautionary landing to wait for improving visibility. He said that while attempting to land, blowing snow from the main rotor downwash reduced his ability to discern topographical features on the snow-covered terrain. During touchdown, the helicopter drifted to the left, the left skid struck the snow-covered terrain, and the helicopter rolled onto its left side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the rotor system, tail boom, and fuselage. The operator reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time16:30 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledCvfr
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftBell Helicopter Textron 206L-1
Tail NumberN1171
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorPathfinder Aviation
Operating RulePart 135
Engines1
Engine TypeTurboshaft
Engine DetailsRolls Royce · C30P · Turboshaft · 650
Seats7

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 51 · Second Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsIMC
LightDaylight
Wind210° @ 10 kt
Visibility1 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point19 C / 0 C
Altimeter0
Weather SourcePILO

Appendix: Source Data