Casualties unknown

Experimental Helicopter Rollover After Engine Failure (N6617L)

Hudsonville, MI, US

On April 18, 1992, a Rose Wesley ROTORWAY WR EXEC (registration N6617L) operated by Rose, Wesley A. Sr. was involved in an aviation accident near Hudsonville, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A broken intake valve spring caused the engine malfunction. 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

An experimental helicopter rolled over during a forced landing after experiencing an engine failure due to a broken intake valve spring. The pilot attempted autorotation from 40 feet but could not fully establish it due to low altitude.

Accident Details

An experimental helicopter experienced an engine malfunction while climbing out from takeoff. When the helicopter reached approximately 40 feet above the ground, the pilot was forced to initiate a landing. The pilot attempted to enter an autorotation configuration, but the low initiating altitude prevented the configuration from being fully established.

The helicopter touched down on a soft field, and its skids dug into the surface, causing the helicopter to roll over.

Engine Investigation

Post-accident investigation revealed that the engine malfunction resulted from a broken intake valve spring. No other contributing factors were identified in the available information.

Notes

The helicopter was experimental, and no information regarding the specific model, registration, operator, location, date, or time of day was provided. Occupant injuries, if any, were not specified in the source.

Probable cause

A broken intake valve spring caused the engine malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Apr 1992 Rose Wesley ROTORWAY WR EXEC accident near Hudsonville, MI?

An experimental helicopter rolled over during a forced landing after experiencing an engine failure due to a broken intake valve spring. The pilot attempted autorotation from 40 feet but could not fully establish it due to low altitude.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Apr 1992 involved a Rose Wesley ROTORWAY WR EXEC, registration N6617L, operated by Rose, Wesley A. Sr., at Hudsonville, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A broken intake valve spring caused the engine malfunction.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14390. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.