On July 14, 1983, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N406EH) was involved in an aviation accident near Cameron, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A complete engine failure during flight, which led to a forced autorotation landing where the helicopter rocked and severed its tail boom. The cause of the engine failure could not be determined despite disassembly and rebuild. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced a complete engine failure during flight, leading to a forced autorotation landing where the aircraft rocked and severed its tail boom.
What happened
The helicopter experienced a complete engine failure during flight. The pilot initiated a forced autorotation landing at an off-airport location. During this maneuver, the aircraft rocked violently, resulting in the severing of the tail boom.
The investigation
Maintenance personnel disassembled and rebuilt the engine to determine the cause of the failure. The inspection revealed no mechanical defects or anomalies that would indicate a specific reason for the engine stopping.
The helicopter had a documented history of engine surges and total pressure fluctuations. Previous maintenance actions had been taken in an attempt to correct these issues, but the engine ultimately quit entirely during this flight.
Probable cause
A complete engine failure during flight, which led to a forced autorotation landing where the helicopter rocked and severed its tail boom. The cause of the engine failure could not be determined despite disassembly and rebuild.
What happened in the 14 Jul 1983 Bell 206L-1 accident near Cameron, LA?
A helicopter experienced a complete engine failure during flight, leading to a forced autorotation landing where the aircraft rocked and severed its tail boom.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Jul 1983 involved a Bell 206L-1, registration N406EH, at Cameron, LA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A complete engine failure during flight, which led to a forced autorotation landing where the helicopter rocked and severed its tail boom. The cause of the engine failure could not be determined despite disassembly and rebuild.
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