On October 16, 1988, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N555GC) operated by Wico Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Wallingford, CT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper fuel flow switch with no check valve protection on system No. 1, and the pulling of fuel boost pump circuit breakers, leading to a flameout. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter lost power and crashed in a tractor trailer parking lot, seriously injuring the pilot and one passenger. Investigation found an improper fuel flow switch with no check valve protection.
Accident Details
A helicopter experienced a loss of engine power and subsequently crashed into a tractor trailer parking lot. The impact destroyed the helicopter and caused serious injuries to the pilot and one passenger. The engine failure occurred while the aircraft was preparing for landing.
Investigation Findings
Following the accident, investigators examined the wreckage and discovered that an improper fuel flow switch had been installed on system No. 1. This switch lacked the required check valve protection. The FAA Certification Branch (ASW-170) noted that using the wrong fuel flow switch in combination with pulling the boost pump circuit breakers creates a high probability of engine flameout.
The pilot reported that he had pulled the master caution circuit breaker and may have also pulled the fuel boost pump circuit breakers as part of his landing preparation. Examination of the cockpit after the crash confirmed that the fuel boost pump circuit breakers were indeed pulled. Approximately 27 gallons of fuel remained in the tanks at the time the engine quit.
Probable cause
Improper fuel flow switch with no check valve protection on system No. 1, and the pulling of fuel boost pump circuit breakers, leading to a flameout.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Oct 1988 Bell 206L-1 accident near Wallingford, CT?
A helicopter lost power and crashed in a tractor trailer parking lot, seriously injuring the pilot and one passenger. Investigation found an improper fuel flow switch with no check valve protection.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 Oct 1988 Bell 206L-1 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Oct 1988 involved a Bell 206L-1, registration N555GC, operated by Wico Aviation, Inc., at Wallingford, CT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Improper fuel flow switch with no check valve protection on system No. 1, and the pulling of fuel boost pump circuit breakers, leading to a flameout.
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