Casualties unknown

Helicopter Engine Power Loss Due to Disconnected Air Duct (N95NR)

Lakewood, CO, US

On March 7, 1992, an Enstrom F28 (registration N95NR) operated by Gavit, Steven E. was involved in an aviation accident near Lakewood, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PREMATURE USE OF COLLECTIVE BY THE PILOT DURING AN AUTOROTATION. FACTORS WERE: THE DISCONNECTION AND SUBSEQUENT COLLAPSE OF THE INDUCTION AIR LINE. 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 helicopter lost engine power and impacted a roadway after the pilot pulled collective, believing power was normal. Post-accident examination revealed a disconnected and collapsed flexible air duct with a loose clamp.

Accident Overview

A helicopter experienced a loss of engine power during flight, prompting the pilot to initiate an autorotation. The pilot reported that he observed normal power indications and therefore pulled collective. Subsequently, the helicopter impacted a roadway.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, a detailed examination of the helicopter was conducted. The inspection disclosed that the flexible air duct, located between the air filter box and the turbocharger inlet, had become disconnected and had collapsed. Additionally, the clamp that secures the air duct to the air filter box was found to be loose and had slipped off its intended position.

Findings

The examination identified two specific conditions: the disconnection and collapse of the flexible air duct, and the loosened clamp. These findings are documented as part of the post-accident analysis. No further details regarding the circumstances leading to the disconnection or the clamp condition are provided in the source material.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Mar 1992 Enstrom F28 accident near Lakewood, CO?

A helicopter lost engine power and impacted a roadway after the pilot pulled collective, believing power was normal. Post-accident examination revealed a disconnected and collapsed flexible air duct with a loose clamp.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Mar 1992 involved an Enstrom F28, registration N95NR, operated by Gavit, Steven E., at Lakewood, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PREMATURE USE OF COLLECTIVE BY THE PILOT DURING AN AUTOROTATION. FACTORS WERE: THE DISCONNECTION AND SUBSEQUENT COLLAPSE OF THE INDUCTION AIR LINE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14276. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.