On September 14, 1990, a Hughes 369E (registration N50075) was involved in an aviation accident near Prestonburg, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOST OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine power loss 30 minutes into flight, performed an autorotation, and attempted a field landing but collided with trees. Fuel quantities and no mechanical malfunction were noted.
Accident Details
Approximately 30 minutes into the en route portion of a flight, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot executed an autorotation and attempted to land in a field. However, the aircraft collided with trees short of the intended landing site.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that at the time of the power loss, the auxiliary fuel tanks were full, and the main tank gauge indicated 90 pounds (14 gallons). The aircraft had been flown for about 1.9 hours since the last refueling. The main fuel tank capacity is 64 gallons, and each auxiliary tank capacity is 20 gallons.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the engine did not disclose evidence of any mechanical malfunction.