On October 24, 1987, a Bell 47J-2 (registration N73201) operated by Michaelson, Harlyn was involved in an aviation accident near Key Colony Bch., FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to properly inspect the fuel system for contaminants, which led to engine failure due to water and fuel contamination. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter pilot conducted a sightseeing flight and experienced an engine failure due to water and fuel contamination, resulting in a water landing and substantial damage to the aircraft.
What happened
The pilot reported that he did not inspect the fuel system for contaminants after refueling. An initial eighteen-minute flight following the refueling was uneventful. He then landed the helicopter and remained on the ground for approximately twenty minutes. During a subsequent walk-around inspection, he again failed to check the fuel system before departing on a sightseeing flight along the shoreline.
While in cruise flight at approximately 500 feet, the engine quit. The pilot performed an autorotative landing in the water. There was no damage to the helicopter during the water landing itself. However, the pilot rolled the aircraft to the right to stop the rotation of the blades in order to exit the aircraft. This action resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter.
The investigation
A mechanic examined the engine and determined that it quit due to water and fuel contamination. The pilot's failure to check the fuel system for contaminants before both flights contributed to the incident.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to properly inspect the fuel system for contaminants, which led to engine failure due to water and fuel contamination.
What happened in the 24 Oct 1987 Bell 47J-2 accident near Key Colony Bch., FL?
A helicopter pilot conducted a sightseeing flight and experienced an engine failure due to water and fuel contamination, resulting in a water landing and substantial damage to the aircraft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Oct 1987 involved a Bell 47J-2, registration N73201, operated by Michaelson, Harlyn, at Key Colony Bch., FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to properly inspect the fuel system for contaminants, which led to engine failure due to water and fuel contamination.
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