Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the water while maneuvering due to the pilot's diverted attention.
NTSB analysis
While maneuvering low over the harbor for an aerial application flight the pilot directed his attention inside of the helicopter to program the global positioning system (GPS). Subsequently, the helicopter impacted the water in a level upright position. Despite the pilot's control inputs the engine lost power and the helicopter slowly started to settle and roll onto its left side. The helicopter's main rotor blades, tail rotor blades, and the main rotor head assembly were damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter's flight control system or engine prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09CA331 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 7, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ocean Shores, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Ocean Shores Municipal Airport (KW04)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dawn
Bell 47G-3B-2
- N-number
- N8169J
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.