Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During En Route Flight Results in Collision with Trees (N50075)

Prestonburg, KY, US

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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

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.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Sept 1990 Hughes 369E accident near Prestonburg, KY?

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.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Sept 1990 involved a Hughes 369E, registration N50075, at Prestonburg, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE LOST OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24203. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.