Factual report: Jetranger slips off paltform

Bell 206, Gumboro Township, Del., Aug. 24, 2009–The JetRanger was substantially damaged after it slipped off a wet, unlevel elevated landing platform while engaged in agricultural spraying operations. According to the pilot, he exited the still-running helicopter, which was common company practice during refueling and reloading procedures. The helicopter then yawed to the right and slid off the platform, coming to rest upside down. The pilot said he could not recall securing the flight controls before exiting the helicopter. Subsequent examination of the 206 showed that the flight-control friction locks were not tight. The helicopter suffered substantial damage to the rotor assembly, fuselage and tail boom.