On November 14, 1983, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N908S) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power during takeoff climb, which led to a forced autorotation landing resulting in tail separation from the main rotor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced engine power loss during takeoff climb, leading to a forced autorotation landing where the tail was severed by the main rotor despite the engine still running.
What happened
The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power while climbing after takeoff. The pilot initiated a forced autorotation landing to manage the emergency. During the descent and subsequent touchdown, the helicopter's tail structure was severed by the rotating main rotor blades.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed no mechanical discrepancies. A run-up test conducted after the incident confirmed that the engine was still operational, maintaining approximately 70 percent N-1 rotation speed at the time of examination.
Findings
The primary factor in this event was the loss of power during the critical takeoff climb phase. The subsequent separation of the tail structure occurred as a direct result of the forced autorotation landing maneuver necessitated by that power failure.
Probable cause
Loss of engine power during takeoff climb, which led to a forced autorotation landing resulting in tail separation from the main rotor.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Nov 1983 Bell 206L-1 accident near Houston, TX?
A helicopter experienced engine power loss during takeoff climb, leading to a forced autorotation landing where the tail was severed by the main rotor despite the engine still running.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Nov 1983 involved a Bell 206L-1, registration N908S, at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of engine power during takeoff climb, which led to a forced autorotation landing resulting in tail separation from the main rotor.
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