On Saturday morning, the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating a helicopter crash that occurred near Fresno.
According to the NTSB’s preliminary information, during a maintenance check flight the helicopter experienced loss of tail rotor control.
The tail rotor is the smaller blade located at the rear of a helicopter that counteracts torque forces caused by spinning its main blades on top. Without it, the helicopter body would spin in the opposite direction to that of its main rotor.
Before issuing its preliminary report in three weeks, the NTSB investigators will assess the human, machine and environmental causes of the crash.
The full investigation will take between 12 and 24 months to conclude.
This is a breaking news update; our original story follows.
On Saturday morning, an investigation is underway into a helicopter crash that occurred near Southeast Fresno.
Fresno police who responded to the scene reported that a civilian helicopter had crashed in the front yard of a home near Willow Ave and Jensen Ave.
According to FPD, both the pilot and their passenger were unharmed in the crash.
Police reported hearing a “pop” before losing altitude.
Both were transported to Community Regional Medical Center for treatment of their injuries. Although the extent of their damages are unknown, Fire and Police Departments reported they are expected to make a full recovery.
Neighbors were visibly distraught as they waited to return home. It remains uncertain when the neighborhood will reopen.
Ring footage shot from a neighbor’s front porch captured the moment when the helicopter crashed into their yard.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the helicopter was a Bell 206B.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the cause of the crash.
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