Pilot Debrief

BELL UH-1B near Orland, CA — 2023-03-02

Final reportWPR23LA118
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Date
2023-03-02
Location
Orland, CA, USA
Aircraft
BELL UH-1B
Registration
N234SJ
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during the final run for the aerial application flight, he noticed the engine spooling down. He attempted to land on a nearby road but collided with the terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter or engine that would have precluded normal operation and that the loss of engine power was due to fuel exhaustion.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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