FlightFinder
Check my flight
No fatalities

Helicopter autorotation and structural damage following engine power fluctuation (N41319)

Alvin, TX, US

On April 16, 1994, a Hiller UH-12 (registration N41319) operated by Central Helicopter Services was involved in an aviation accident near Alvin, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine power fluctuation during climb leading to loss of rotor RPM and subsequent autorotation. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter experienced engine power fluctuations during climb, leading to a low-altitude autorotation. The pilot landed safely, though the aircraft sustained significant structural damage to the right skid and tail boom.

What happened

During a climb to cruise altitude, the helicopter's engine power began to fluctuate unexpectedly. This instability caused the main rotor revolutions per minute (RPM) to decay to a level that was insufficient to maintain controlled flight. Recognizing the loss of power, the pilot executed an autorotation from a low altitude, aiming for the only available landing area nearby.

During the touchdown phase of this emergency landing, the aircraft sustained significant structural damage. The right skid was damaged upon impact, and the tail boom was severed completely.

The investigation

Following the incident, an FAA airworthiness inspector examined the helicopter's engine and drive train to determine the cause of the power fluctuation. The inspection revealed no discrepancies in the mechanical systems.

Probable cause

Engine power fluctuation during climb leading to loss of rotor RPM and subsequent autorotation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Apr 1994 Hiller UH-12 accident near Alvin, TX?

A helicopter experienced engine power fluctuations during climb, leading to a low-altitude autorotation. The pilot landed safely, though the aircraft sustained significant structural damage to the right skid and tail boom.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 Apr 1994 Hiller UH-12 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Apr 1994 involved a Hiller UH-12, registration N41319, operated by Central Helicopter Services, at Alvin, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine power fluctuation during climb leading to loss of rotor RPM and subsequent autorotation.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01102. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.