Pilot Debrief

SIBILA MH-1 near Beach City, OH — 2018-06-25

Final reportCEN18LA239
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Date
2018-06-25
Location
Beach City, OH, USA
Airport
2D7
Aircraft
SIBILA MH-1
Registration
N32KS
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot, who did not hold a rotorcraft rating, reported that he departed on a maintenance flight to track and balance the experimental, amateur-built helicopter's main rotor. As he was making the approach to land, the helicopter was about 40 ft above ground level when the engine lost total power with no warning. He entered an autorotation for the forced landing, but within seconds the helicopter impacted terrain, the skids collapsed, and it rolled on its side. A postaccident engine run/test was conducted, and the engine started with no hesitation; however, the run time was limited due to damaged cooling fans. The postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Thus, the reason for the total loss of engine power could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Ensuring all intake manifold clamps were properly secured before flight.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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