FlightFinder
Check my flight
No fatalities

Helicopter crash due to engine power loss and leaking P3 line (N2779B)

Belen, NM, US

On March 27, 1994, a Bell 206B (registration N2779B) operated by Aero West Management Services was involved in an aviation accident near Belen, NM. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power due to a leaking P3 line. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter lost engine power at low altitude, forcing the pilot to execute an autorotation into a desert area. The aircraft sustained substantial damage after a hard landing.

What happened

The incident occurred when the helicopter's engine experienced a sudden loss of power while operating at an altitude between 200 and 400 feet above ground level. Recognizing the emergency, the pilot immediately initiated an autorotation to maintain rotor RPM and control the descent.

The pilot directed the aircraft toward a flat desert area that was confirmed to be free of obstacles. Despite the controlled approach, the helicopter touched down with significant force. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the airframe and critical dynamic components of the rotor system.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators conducted a thorough examination of the helicopter's engine to determine the root cause of the power failure. The inspection revealed that the P3 line was leaking, which likely contributed to the loss of engine performance.

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to a leaking P3 line.
Engine failure

Related events

Same aircraft family

Same operator

All Bell 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 1994 Bell 206B accident near Belen, NM?

A helicopter lost engine power at low altitude, forcing the pilot to execute an autorotation into a desert area. The aircraft sustained substantial damage after a hard landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Mar 1994 Bell 206B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 1994 involved a Bell 206B, registration N2779B, operated by Aero West Management Services, at Belen, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power due to a leaking P3 line.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00911. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.