Pilot Debrief

Robinson R44 near Cass, AR — 2019-06-03

Final reportCEN19FA160
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Date
2019-06-03
Location
Cass, AR, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R44
Registration
N41351
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
3
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.

NTSB narrative

The pilot and three passengers departed on a local sightseeing flight at a music festival. The helicopter impacted a densely wooded area and came to rest between trees on its right side. The surviving passenger stated to the media that the helicopter’s engine made sounds “like your car does when it runs out of fuel.” Examination of the helicopter at the accident site indicated evidence of main rotor blade rotation; however, damage to the engine drive system did not reveal evidence of engine power at the time of impact. Additionally, the oil pressure warning light bulb filament was found stretched consistent with illumination at the time of impact, which according to the helicopter’s operating handbook, may be one indication of a loss of engine power. About 5 gallons of fuel was drained from the helicopter following the accident, with no evidence of fuel contamination. Examination of the airframe, flight controls, and engine revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel levels before flight to prevent engine failure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • ADS-B / radar
  • Photos
  • 12 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents12

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