On June 15, 1985, a Bell 206B-III (registration N3179X) was involved in an aviation accident near Lahaina, HI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure the fuel was free of contaminants, which resulted in an excess of 3 gallons of fresh water in the tank and subsequent engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced engine failure during a sightseeing flight due to water in the fuel system, resulting in a controlled landing in the Pacific Ocean surf with no injuries.
What happened
The pilot reported that the engine failed at an altitude of 800 feet mean sea level (MSL) during the climb to cruise phase of a sightseeing flight. The aircraft was carrying three passengers on board. Following the failure, the aircraft landed in the surf of the Pacific Ocean and sustained damage to the tail rotor. Despite the crash landing, the pilot and all three passengers received no injuries.
The investigation
An examination of the fuel system disclosed an excess of 3 gallons of fresh water in the tank.
Findings
The presence of significant water contamination in the fuel system was identified as the primary mechanical issue. The fuel exhaustion or engine stoppage was directly linked to this foreign object damage within the fuel supply.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure the fuel was free of contaminants, which resulted in an excess of 3 gallons of fresh water in the tank and subsequent engine failure.
What happened in the 15 Jun 1985 Bell 206B-III accident near Lahaina, HI?
A helicopter experienced engine failure during a sightseeing flight due to water in the fuel system, resulting in a controlled landing in the Pacific Ocean surf with no injuries.
Were there any fatalities in the 15 Jun 1985 Bell 206B-III accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Jun 1985 involved a Bell 206B-III, registration N3179X, at Lahaina, HI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure the fuel was free of contaminants, which resulted in an excess of 3 gallons of fresh water in the tank and subsequent engine failure.
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