Pilot Debrief

ENSTROM F-28C near Fort Pierce, FL — 2011-02-26

Final reportERA11CA166
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Date
2011-02-26
Location
Fort Pierce, FL, USA
Aircraft
ENSTROM F-28C
Registration
N5689B
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that the fuel gauge indicated one-eighth to one-quarter full on takeoff. At an altitude of approximately 200 feet, the low fuel pressure light illuminated, followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot performed a 180-degree autorotation to a parking lot, and the helicopter landed hard, resulting in substantial damage to the left skid and tail boom. During a postaccident examination, a Federal Aviation Administration inspector drained approximately 3 ounces of fuel from the gascolator. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the helicopter, and that he ran it out of fuel by trusting the gauge.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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