On August 4, 1988, a Hiller UH-12E (registration N5375V) was involved in an aviation accident near Lovely, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine overheating due to lack of lubrication. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter performing aerial application operations lost engine power and crashed into trees. Investigation revealed engine overheating due to lack of lubrication.
Accident Overview
A helicopter engaged in aerial application operations along a powerline right-of-way experienced a loss of engine power. The aircraft subsequently struck trees and came to rest on the ground.
Sequence of Events
The helicopter was conducting aerial spraying when the engine lost power. According to the pilot, he attempted to initiate a right turn and climb to avoid obstacles, but the engine failed to produce full power when the throttle was increased. The helicopter 'settled and crashed' into an area of tall trees.
Investigation
Post-accident examination included a teardown of the engine. The inspection revealed evidence of overheating due to lack of lubrication, which led to the power loss.