Pilot Debrief

Hughes 269A near Franklin Furnac, OH — 2008-03-21

Final reportCHI08CA097
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Date
2008-03-21
Location
Franklin Furnac, OH, USA
Airport
DWU
Aircraft
Hughes 269A
Registration
N9333V
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The fuel exhaustion during cruise flight and the unsuitable terrain encountered by the pilot-in-command. A contributing factor was the trees.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter sustained substantial damage during a forced landing after a total loss of engine power during cruise flight. The helicopter was recently purchased by the left seat pilot, who did not hold a rotorcraft rating, and was being piloted by the right sear pilot at the time of the accident. The right seat pilot stated that he performed an autorotation on a hilltop, which was "sparsely populated" by 7-1/2 to 8 foot high trees. He also stated that the hilltop was the only available landing area, which was surrounded by "hostile" terrain. During the forced landing, the tail boom sustained damage on impact with trees. Examination of the helicopter revealed no usable fuel aboard.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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