Pilot Debrief

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELICOPTER 369E near Delta Junction, AK — 2010-03-06

Final reportANC10LA020
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Date
2010-03-06
Location
Delta Junction, AK, USA
Aircraft
MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELICOPTER 369E
Registration
N26TC
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power in flight for undetermined reasons.

Contributing factors

Environmental issues Tree(s) - Contributed to outcome

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was in cruise flight when he heard a “pop” and the engine lost all power. He initiated an autorotation to a clearing, but was unable to reach it and had to land in an area with trees. The helicopter struck treetops during the descent and landed hard, sustaining structural damage. A postaccident inspection, including running the engine in a test cell, disclosed ample uncontaminated fuel, and no evidence of any preimpact mechanical problems with the helicopter’s engine or systems.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have performed engine checks before departure to prevent power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents13

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