Pilot Debrief

GARLICK OH-58A near Kountze, TX — 2010-07-31

Final reportCEN10LA455
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Date
2010-07-31
Location
Kountze, TX, USA
Aircraft
GARLICK OH-58A
Registration
N305SD
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion as a result of the pilot’s improper fuel planning.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that he normally fueled the helicopter with 200 pounds of fuel each time he loaded chemicals, which equated to approximately 30 minutes of engine endurance. During the flight he did not recall the 20-minute fuel warning light or any other warning lights illuminating. After what the pilot thought was about 15 minutes into the flight, the helicopter yawed from side-to-side and the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot performed a quick-stop landing, severing the tail boom. Federal Aviation Administration inspectors found no fuel in the fuel line and only a half of a cup of fuel in the fuel filter. While the fuel tank had been compromised, there was no evidence of fuel in the surrounding area.

Analysis

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

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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