Accident Overview
During cruise flight at 1,200 feet MSL, the helicopter's engine failed, prompting a forced autorotative landing. The aircraft touched down in a mowed wheat field, where the right skid dug into the soft ground. The pilot and passengers reported no injuries. The pilot later remarked that the subsequent ride in the back of a pickup truck across the rough field was far more uncomfortable than the actual landing.
Fuel System Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the fuel system was conducted. The aircraft had been carrying two hours of fuel at departure, with the engine operating for 1 hour and 36 minutes before it ceased. Investigators opened the inlet line to the carburetor and found no fuel. Similarly, the lines to the boost pump yielded no fuel. The outlet line from the fuel tank was also dry. The gascolator contained only 2 ounces of fuel, whereas its capacity is 4 to 6 ounces. Draining the fuel tank produced one quart of fuel, and draining the carburetor recovered just four drops.