Casualties unknown

Helicopter Noses Over After Engine Failure During Training (N11079)

Grand Forks, ND, US

On November 19, 1987, a Hughes 269C (registration N11079) operated by University OF North Dakota was involved in an aviation accident near Grand Forks, ND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A CFI was instructing a private-rated dual student in simulated forced landings. During power recovery after a practice autorotation, the engine did not regain RPM at full throttle. The helicopter nosed over at touchdown and the main rotor struck terrain.

Incident Details

A certified flight instructor was providing instruction to a private-rated dual student during simulated forced landings. The training involved a practice autorotation. As part of the recovery procedure, the throttle was advanced to the full position, but the engine did not regain rotor RPM, necessitating a forced landing. During the touchdown, the helicopter nosed over, and the main rotor struck the terrain.

Post-Incident Examination

A post-accident engine run was conducted under test cell conditions. During this test, the engine produced full rated power. An inspection of the engine was also performed. The inspection did not reveal any evidence that could explain the reported failure of the engine to respond during the accident sequence. No determination regarding the cause of the engine's lack of response was made.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32516. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.