ANC95LA115

The pilot's right foot became stuck under the right anti-torque pedal during an approach to a sandbar. While attempting to free his foot, he lost control of the aircraft, resulting in a crash onto the sandbar. FAA medical records indicated that the pilot was an incomplete paraplegic, and his medical certificate was valid for student privileges only. The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical malfunctions.

On July 26, 1995, about 1300 Alaska daylight time, N85CA, a Bell 206B helicopter, operated by the owner/pilot, collided with terrain during an uncontrolled descent and was substantially damaged near Talkeetna, Alaska. The commercial pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed. The personal flight departed from Palmer, Alaska, and was conducted under 14 CFR 91.

According to the pilot, he was practicing an approach to landing on a sand bar when his right foot became "hooked" under the right anti-torque pedal. The helicopter spun out of control from an altitude of about 50 feet and impacted the sand bar, causing substantial damage. No preimpact mechanical malfunctions were reported. The pilot stated that he is an incomplete paraplegic and holds an FAA Third Class Medical Certificate. According to FAA records, the pilot's medical certificate is "valid for student pilot purposes only" because of his partial paralysis.