Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Dunedin, FL — 2009-07-24

Final reportERA09LA421
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Date
2009-07-24
Location
Dunedin, FL, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N645JC
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

During a local sightseeing flight, while over water with adequate fuel on-board, the pilot reported that the helicopter felt sluggish. He applied forward cyclic to accelerate and maneuvered the helicopter toward the shore. He then heard the main rotor rpm warning and also reported seeing the fuel quantity light. He entered an autorotation to the water and all occupants exited the helicopter and swam to shore. The helicopter remained submerged for more than 3 days and inspection of the helicopter and engine following recovery revealed no evidence of preimpact failure of the engine or engine accessories, including the magnetos or fuel servo. No determination was made as to the reason for the reported loss of engine power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel system before flight to prevent contamination.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 10 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents10

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