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Casualties unknown

Helicopter Rolls onto Side After Hard Landing During Forced Approach Following Partial Power Loss (N6417V)

Crystal Beach, TX, US

On May 8, 1994, a Hiller UH-12B (registration N6417V) was involved in an aviation accident near Crystal Beach, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER AUTOROTATION TOUCHDOWN, WHICH RSULTED IN THE HARD LANDING. A FACTOR WAS THE POWER LOSS DUE TO WATER CONTAMINATED FUEL. 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 experienced a partial engine power loss during initial climb. The pilot turned downwind and attempted to maneuver into wind at low altitude, resulting in a hard, sideways landing. The helicopter rolled onto its left side. Investigation found no mechanical failure but water-contaminated fuel.

Accident Overview

A helicopter suffered a partial loss of engine power during the initial climb after takeoff. The pilot assessed that landing straight ahead would pose a hazard and instead chose to turn downwind and attempt to maneuver back into the wind at a low altitude.

Landing and Rollover

During touchdown, the helicopter landed hard, touched down sideways, rocked on its skids, and subsequently rolled onto its left side.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the engine and its accessories revealed no evidence of pre-accident mechanical failure or malfunction. However, analysis of fuel samples taken from the system indicated contamination with water.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 May 1994 Hiller UH-12B accident near Crystal Beach, TX?

A helicopter experienced a partial engine power loss during initial climb. The pilot turned downwind and attempted to maneuver into wind at low altitude, resulting in a hard, sideways landing. The helicopter rolled onto its left side. Investigation found no mechanical failure but water-contaminated fuel.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 May 1994 involved a Hiller UH-12B, registration N6417V, at Crystal Beach, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER AUTOROTATION TOUCHDOWN, WHICH RSULTED IN THE HARD LANDING. A FACTOR WAS THE POWER LOSS DUE TO WATER CONTAMINATED FUEL.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01281. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.