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Engine Failure During Pull-Up Leads to Hard Landing and Tail Boom Strike (N6749D)

Scottsdale, AZ, US

On July 30, 1994, a Bell 47G-2A (registration N6749D) operated by Joe Henderson was involved in an aviation accident near Scottsdale, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO REFUEL APPROPRIATELY, THE ALTITUDE AND AIRSPEED AT THE TIME THE ENGINE STOPPAGE OCCURRED WERE FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT. 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 an engine failure while pulling up after an application run. The pilot performed an autorotation from 40 feet, but the aircraft landed hard and the main rotor struck the tail boom. Only about one quart of fuel remained.

Accident Overview

A helicopter pilot reported that while concluding an application run and in the process of pulling up and turning to the right, the engine briefly sputtered and then ceased operation. The aircraft was at an altitude of approximately 40 feet and an airspeed of 40 knots when the pilot initiated an autorotation.

Landing and Damage

During the autorotative landing, the aircraft touched down hard. The impact caused the main rotor blade to strike the tail boom, resulting in damage to the tail boom structure.

Fuel and Post-Accident Testing

A company mechanic inspected the aircraft after the accident and found that approximately one quart of fuel remained in the tank. Following recovery, the helicopter was refueled. The engine then started and operated normally on the first attempt.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jul 1994 Bell 47G-2A accident near Scottsdale, AZ?

A helicopter experienced an engine failure while pulling up after an application run. The pilot performed an autorotation from 40 feet, but the aircraft landed hard and the main rotor struck the tail boom. Only about one quart of fuel remained.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jul 1994 Bell 47G-2A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jul 1994 involved a Bell 47G-2A, registration N6749D, operated by Joe Henderson, at Scottsdale, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO REFUEL APPROPRIATELY, THE ALTITUDE AND AIRSPEED AT THE TIME THE ENGINE STOPPAGE OCCURRED WERE FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01795. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.