LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - The helicopter involved in Monday evening’s crash is a Bell 206-L3. It was built in 1990. The tail number is N230AE.

The chopper was used several times Monday, including a few trips in a triangular pattern starting at the base in Grant County, then on to Frankfort Regional Medical Center and making a stop at UK’s Chandler Hospital, then back to the hub in Williamstown.

Based on the flight pattern, the pilot was preparing to land at the football field nearby.

The FAA’s preliminary investigation indicates the blades hit guy wires connected to the radio tower, according to evidence and witness reports.

The NTSB says the pilot was “extremely experienced” and had used the landing zone before, but it was unclear how many times. Investigators say the pilot was doing orbiting reconnaissance at the time of the crash while people on the ground were getting into place.

Officials did not identify the pilot; but FAA records show Gale Alleman was licensed and registered as an airline transport pilot and flight engineer.

As for the company, Air Evac Lifeteam, according to its website, is the largest independently owned and operated membership-supported air ambulance service in the United States, with more than 150 mutually supporting bases across 18 states.

Records show, this particular aircraft was involved in a rough landing back in 2005 in Texas. The helicopter had substantial damage, and the engine was removed and sent to the factory for an examination and test run.

FAA inspectors said no discrepancies were noted, so it was unclear why there was a loss of power that day. Three people were onboard, but none were injured.

An initial report into Monday’s crash is expected to be released by the National Transportation Safety Board after 30 days and then a final report is expected within 12 to 24 months.

The patient the medical helicopter was going to pick up is apparently doing well, from what the NTSB understands.

An aircraft recovery company is in route to remove the helicopter wreckage. Removal operations will begin Wednesday, and the NTSB expects that to be completed by the end of the day.

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