On February 24, 1994, a Bell 47G-3B-1 (registration N73909) operated by Pacific Air Research, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Gold Hill, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: SEPARATION OF THE CROSSOVER FUEL LINE, AND THE INABILITY OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO MAINTAIN A PROPER RATE OF DESCENT DURING THE AUTOROTATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While spraying herbicide, a helicopter experienced a power loss and subsequent total power failure. The pilot attempted a landing in a clearing but descended vertically about 75 feet before a hard landing. Examination revealed a separated fuel line crossover 'T' fitting weld.
Incident Overview
A helicopter engaged in herbicide spraying operations began losing power. The pilot initiated a landing attempt in a clearing, during which a total power loss occurred. The aircraft then descended vertically for approximately 75 feet before landing hard.
Post-Crash Examination
Following the hard landing, a post-crash examination was conducted. The inspection revealed that the fuel line crossover 'T' fitting had separated at its weld. This fitting is responsible for routing fuel from the fuel tanks to the gascolator and engine.
Technical Details
The fuel line crossover 'T' fitting is a component that directs fuel flow from the tanks through the gascolator to the engine. The separation at the weld likely resulted in fuel starvation, leading to the loss of engine power.