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Helicopter Engine Failure Leads to Water Landing (N206AT)

Lake Ozark, MO, US

On July 19, 1990, a Bell 206A (registration N206AT) operated by Ozark Helicopter was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Ozark, MO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the compressor blades after the first stage, which resulted in an engine failure and subsequent sinking of the helicopter. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter suffered an engine failure shortly after takeoff over water. Emergency floats failed to deploy, causing the aircraft to sink, but all occupants escaped unharmed.

What happened

Shortly after lift-off over a body of water, the helicopter experienced a sudden engine failure. The pilot attempted an emergency landing on the surface, but the inflatable flotation devices did not deploy as intended. Consequently, the aircraft sank to the bottom. Despite the loss of the helicopter, all four occupants managed to escape the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The aircraft sustained only minor damage prior to sinking.

The investigation

A post-accident examination of the failed engine revealed that the compressor blades located after the first stage had failed structurally. This mechanical failure was identified as the primary reason for the loss of power during flight.

Probable cause

The failure of the compressor blades after the first stage, which resulted in an engine failure and subsequent sinking of the helicopter.
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jul 1990 Bell 206A accident near Lake Ozark, MO?

A helicopter suffered an engine failure shortly after takeoff over water. Emergency floats failed to deploy, causing the aircraft to sink, but all occupants escaped unharmed.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jul 1990 Bell 206A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Jul 1990 involved a Bell 206A, registration N206AT, operated by Ozark Helicopter, at Lake Ozark, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the compressor blades after the first stage, which resulted in an engine failure and subsequent sinking of the helicopter.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23631. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.