On July 14, 1992, a Hiller-soloy UH12D (registration N62404) operated by Columbia Helicopters, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Loman, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion due to inaccurate fuel quantity indication caused by a short in the fuel quantity transmitter unit. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A Hiller/Soloy UH12D helicopter experienced a total loss of power while repositioning logging personnel, leading to a forced autorotation into trees. Investigation revealed a short in the fuel quantity transmitter caused a false reading.
Accident Summary
A Hiller/Soloy UH12D helicopter was repositioning logging personnel when it suffered a total loss of engine power. The pilot, unable to find a suitable landing area, elected to perform an autorotation into the tops of approximately 50-foot-high trees. After contacting the tree tops, the helicopter fell to the ground.
Investigation Findings
Post-crash examination revealed that a short circuit in the fuel quantity transmitter unit had caused the fuel gauge to indicate 20 gallons, when in fact the fuel tank contained only about one cup of fuel. The fuel quantity transmitter malfunction led to a false reading, which misled the pilot regarding the actual fuel remaining.
Probable cause
Fuel exhaustion due to inaccurate fuel quantity indication caused by a short in the fuel quantity transmitter unit.
What happened in the 14 Jul 1992 Hiller-soloy UH12D accident near Loman, ID?
A Hiller/Soloy UH12D helicopter experienced a total loss of power while repositioning logging personnel, leading to a forced autorotation into trees. Investigation revealed a short in the fuel quantity transmitter caused a false reading.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Jul 1992 involved a Hiller-soloy UH12D, registration N62404, operated by Columbia Helicopters, Inc., at Loman, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fuel exhaustion due to inaccurate fuel quantity indication caused by a short in the fuel quantity transmitter unit.
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