On September 19, 1983, a Bell 47G (registration N62221) was involved in an aviation accident near Oceanside, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel starvation caused by improper fuel selector valve position at takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after takeoff, a helicopter's engine lost power at about 400 ft AGL. The pilot performed an autorotative landing on uneven terrain beside a stream with weeds. During touchdown, the main rotor struck the tail boom.
Incident
Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power at an altitude of approximately 400 feet above ground level. The pilot executed an autorotative landing on uneven terrain beside a stream where weeds were about 3 feet high. During touchdown, the main rotor struck the tail boom.
Investigation
An inspection of the engine revealed no malfunction. The engine appeared to be functioning normally after the event.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he suspected fuel starvation. He indicated that he did not have the fuel selector valve in the proper position at the time of takeoff.
Probable cause
Fuel starvation caused by improper fuel selector valve position at takeoff.
What happened in the 19 Sept 1983 Bell 47G accident near Oceanside, CA?
Shortly after takeoff, a helicopter's engine lost power at about 400 ft AGL. The pilot performed an autorotative landing on uneven terrain beside a stream with weeds. During touchdown, the main rotor struck the tail boom.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Sept 1983 involved a Bell 47G, registration N62221, at Oceanside, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fuel starvation caused by improper fuel selector valve position at takeoff.
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