Pilot Debrief

Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II near Lakeport, CA — 2009-06-25

Final reportWPR09LA312
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Date
2009-06-25
Location
Lakeport, CA, USA
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II
Registration
N515DG
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

A loss of engine power while maneuvering for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The certified flight instructor (CFI) and pilot undergoing instruction (PUI) were on a local instructional flight. The helicopter was fueled about 15 minutes prior and they were initiating a 180-degree autorotation with a power recovery. The helicopter entered into a glide and they made the turn onto the final segment. The CFI noticed that the oil and auxiliary fuel pump lights were on. The CFI then looked at the tachometer and attempted to increase the throttle. The power did not return and the CFI force-landed the helicopter. During the landing the main rotor blade impacted the tail boom. Post accident examination of the helicopter and test run of the engine revealed no operational anomalies.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Throttle should not have been rolled to full idle during autorotation practice.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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