Pilot Debrief

MICHAEL S/MICHAEL K SAFARI near Middle Valley, TN — 2012-03-13

Final reportERA12LA226
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Date
2012-03-13
Location
Middle Valley, TN, USA
Aircraft
MICHAEL S/MICHAEL K SAFARI
Registration
N105KM
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined due to the postaccident condition of the airframe and engine.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the experimental amateur-built helicopter reported that the engine shuddered twice momentarily shortly after takeoff and then lost power. After observing the engine rpm drop from about 2,700 to 1,500, the pilot initiated an autorotation and subsequently landed the helicopter on top of a tree, which began to lower toward a creek. The helicopter came to rest partially submerged in the creek and was partially consumed by a postcrash fire. Postaccident examination of the wreckage did not reveal any preimpact malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation; however, impact and fire damage precluded the ability to functionally check the engine and fuel system. Review of engine monitor data, which was recorded at 5-second intervals, did not reveal any drops in engine rpm or any other anomalies consistent with the pilot's statement.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the flight after the first engine shutter.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents13

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