On September 6, 1982, a Hiller UH-12-SOLOY (registration N9035H) operated by Helicopter Leasing Associates was involved in an aviation accident near Kellogg, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply due to a leak in the fuel suction hose, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and subsequent engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced an engine failure during transition to forward flight after releasing a load of logs. Investigation revealed no usable fuel remained and a leak was found in the fuel suction hose.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft's engine failed shortly after he had just released a load of logs and began transitioning into forward flight. Upon inspection, it was determined that there was no usable fuel remaining on board. The pilot noted that the fuel gauge indicated approximately 50 pounds of fuel at the moment the engine stopped.
The investigation
A mechanical examination was conducted to determine the cause of the fuel loss. A leak test was performed on the fuel suction hose, which connects the inlet port of the fuel boost pump to the fuel pickup line inside the fuel tank. The test disclosed a leak in this component.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the incident were fuel exhaustion and a mechanical failure in the fuel system. Specifically, a leak in the fuel suction hose allowed fuel to escape before it could be utilized by the engine. Although the gauge showed residual fuel, the leak rendered it unusable for propulsion.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply due to a leak in the fuel suction hose, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and subsequent engine failure.