Casualties unknown

Helicopter Engine Power Loss During Approach Leads to Road Landing (N1100W)

Ft. Myers, FL, US

On February 27, 1982, a Hughes 269C (registration N1100W) operated by Southern Machine&steel was involved in an aviation accident near Ft. Myers, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter pilot experienced an engine RPM drop, landed on a road, conducted a power check, then took off. During a subsequent approach, a collective pull indicated no power, prompting an emergency landing.

Incident Overview

During a helicopter flight, the engine's RPM dropped, prompting the pilot to immediately land on a road. After landing, the pilot performed a power check by bringing the helicopter to a hover and moving it approximately 30 feet three times. The power appeared normal, so the pilot elected to take off again.

Power Loss During Approach

During the subsequent approach, while the helicopter was at approximately 25 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot attempted to pull the collective control. At that moment, the pilot received an indication of no power. In response, the pilot partially lowered the collective and attempted an emergency landing.

Actions Taken

The pilot's initial response to the RPM drop was an immediate landing on a road. Following the power check and a seemingly normal indication, the takeoff proceeded without incident until the final approach. The exact details of the emergency landing and the final outcome are not specified in the source material.

Key Details

  • The helicopter experienced an engine RPM decrease in flight.
  • A precautionary landing was made on a road.
  • A hover power check was performed, appearing normal.
  • A second takeoff was conducted.
  • During the next approach at 25 feet AGL, collective input resulted in a no-power indication.
  • The pilot partially lowered the collective and initiated an emergency landing.

No information is available regarding the helicopter type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, occupants, injuries, or damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02355. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.