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Helicopter Hard Landing After Engine Power Loss Due to Improper Part (N1434W)

San Diego, CA, US

On March 31, 1985, a Bell 206A (registration N1434W) operated by Blue Bird Express Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near San Diego, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An improper part (an oil line) had been substituted for the 'compressor to fuel control pressure sensing' line, which fractured at a B-nut resulting in loss of power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter lost engine power during flight, leading to an autorotative landing. The pilot maneuvered to avoid a crane and a vehicle, but lost rotor RPM and landed hard. Investigation found an improper oil line had been substituted, causing a fracture and power loss.

Incident Overview

During flight, the helicopter's engine lost power. The pilot initiated an autorotative landing in a parking lot. During the approach, the pilot maneuvered to avoid a 100-foot crane. As the helicopter approached the intended touchdown point, a vehicle was driven into the flight path. To avoid the vehicle, the pilot increased collective input to extend the glide path. Subsequently, the helicopter lost rotor RPM before touchdown and landed hard.

Investigation Findings

An examination revealed that an improper part—an oil line—had been substituted for the 'compressor to fuel control pressure sensing' line (part number 6848471). The line had fractured at a B-nut, which resulted in a loss of power.

Probable cause

An improper part (an oil line) had been substituted for the 'compressor to fuel control pressure sensing' line, which fractured at a B-nut resulting in loss of power.
Maintenance error

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Mar 1985 Bell 206A accident near San Diego, CA?

A helicopter lost engine power during flight, leading to an autorotative landing. The pilot maneuvered to avoid a crane and a vehicle, but lost rotor RPM and landed hard. Investigation found an improper oil line had been substituted, causing a fracture and power loss.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Mar 1985 involved a Bell 206A, registration N1434W, operated by Blue Bird Express Helicopters, at San Diego, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An improper part (an oil line) had been substituted for the 'compressor to fuel control pressure sensing' line, which fractured at a B-nut resulting in loss of power.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35971. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.