Casualties unknown

1986-05-21: Bell UH-1B (N3879G) — Fellsmere, FL

Fellsmere, FL, US

On May 21, 1986, a Bell UH-1B (registration N3879G) was involved in an aviation accident near Fellsmere, FL. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that his engine failed during a night crop dusting mission after the low fuel warning light had been on for several minutes. The aircraft nosed over during the subsequent forced landing roll.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, the aircraft had approximately 350 pounds of fuel on board at the start of his fourth night crop dusting mission. Each mission typically lasts 6 to 8 minutes, with an average fuel consumption of about 570 pounds per hour.

Engine Failure and Forced Landing

The pilot stated that the 20-minute low fuel level warning light had been illuminated for 3 to 5 minutes when the engine failed. The aircraft then performed a forced landing at night, during which it nosed over during the landing roll.

Pilot's Account

The pilot reported that he did not think he had run out of fuel, but he was not certain. He also noted that the aircraft had operated normally prior to the engine failure.

Investigation Notes

No probable cause has been determined from the information provided. The incident highlights the circumstances surrounding the low fuel condition and subsequent forced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33637. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.