Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Precautionary Landing After Rough Running (N58131)

Montpelier, ID, US

On December 7, 1992, a Bell 47G3-B2A (registration N58131) operated by Wood, Brent V. was involved in an aviation accident near Montpelier, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO LEAKING INTERNAL CARBURETOR SEALS, RESULTING FROM IMPROPER REPAIR OF THE CARBURETOR BY AN ACFT REPAIR STATION. 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 conducting a wild game survey experienced engine roughness, prompting a precautionary landing on a road. On final approach, the engine lost power at low altitude, resulting in a hard landing. Carburetor seals were found damaged and leaking.

Incident Overview

A helicopter engaged in a wild game survey flight in mountainous terrain had to discontinue the mission when the engine began running roughly. The pilot initiated a precautionary landing to a road in the vicinity.

Sequence of Events

During the final approach, approximately 50 feet above ground level and at a slow airspeed, the engine lost power. The helicopter subsequently landed hard.

Post-Accident Examination

Inspection of the carburetor revealed damaged and leaking seals. Records indicated that the carburetor had been repaired as needed by an aircraft repair station approximately two months before the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Dec 1992 Bell 47G3-B2A accident near Montpelier, ID?

A helicopter conducting a wild game survey experienced engine roughness, prompting a precautionary landing on a road. On final approach, the engine lost power at low altitude, resulting in a hard landing. Carburetor seals were found damaged and leaking.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Dec 1992 involved a Bell 47G3-B2A, registration N58131, operated by Wood, Brent V., at Montpelier, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO LEAKING INTERNAL CARBURETOR SEALS, RESULTING FROM IMPROPER REPAIR OF THE CARBURETOR BY AN ACFT REPAIR STATION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16243. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.