MINR · Bell 206L-3 · 1996-09-04 · SHERIDAN, WY, USA
Event
NTSB number
SEA96TA207
Event ID
20001208X06822
Type
Accident
Date
1996-09-04
Location
SHERIDAN, WY, USA
Coordinates
44.790782, -106.949829
Injuries
Highest injury
MINR
Fatal
0
Serious
0
Minor
1
Uninjured
0
Total aboard
1
Aircraft
Make
Bell
Model
206L-3
Registration
N253EV
FAR Part
091
Engines
1
Damage
SUBS
Conditions
Light
DAYL
Weather
VMC
Probable cause
the pilot's improper in-flight planning/decision, concerning maneuvers to position the helicopter for aerial application; and inadvertent loss of tail rotor effectiveness, which resulted in loss of directional control and subsequent collision with the terrain. Factors relating to the accident include unfavorable weather conditions (high wind, gusts, turbulence, smoke, and high density altitude); the pilot's lack of recent experience in type of operation, and the lack of suitable terrain for a safe autorotation.