Incident Sequence
During a vertical takeoff, a helicopter reached approximately 30 feet above ground level while transitioning to forward flight. At that point, the engine lost power. The pilot partially lowered the collective to maintain rotor RPM. The helicopter subsequently landed hard on sloping terrain, bounced laterally to the right, and collided with trees.
Investigation Findings
As part of the investigation, the helicopter was defueled. Approximately 14.6 gallons of fuel were drained from the rear main fuel cell, and approximately 4.7 gallons were drained from the right front tank.
Fuel System Examination
Examination of the fuel system revealed contamination of the right and left in-line fuel filter assemblies (part number 206-063-001). The contamination consisted of dirt, paint chips, lint-type fuzz, and metal shavings. According to Bell Helicopter, the fuel transfer system can be rendered inoperative by contaminants, resulting in engine flameouts.