# NTSB Accident LAX97LA185
> **Bell 206B** · 1997-05-18 · HILO, HI, USA · FATL
## Event
- **NTSB number:** LAX97LA185
- **Event ID:** 20001208X07954
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 1997-05-18
- **Location:** HILO, HI, USA
- **Coordinates:** 19.69087, -155.079879
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** FATL
- **Fatal:** 1
- **Serious:** 0
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 0
- **Total aboard:** 1
## Aircraft
- **Make:** Bell
- **Model:** 206B
- **Registration:** N98AW
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 1
- **Damage:** DEST
## Conditions
- **Light:** DAYL
- **Weather:** IMC
## Probable cause

the noninstrument-rated pilot flew into instrument conditions and failed to maintain adequate terrain clearance, while attempting to descend through an overcast.  The adverse weather conditions and mountainous terrain were related factors.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=LAX97LA185) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*