On June 15, 1996, an Enstrom 280C (registration N557H) was involved in an aviation accident near Lambertville, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a total loss of engine power as a result of fuel exhaustion due to the pilot's inadequate preflight, and the pilot's misjudged distance/altitude during the subsequent autorotation. A factor was inadequate maintenance and inspection. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced a total loss of engine power after setting cruise power, leading to an off-airport landing during which main rotor blades struck the tail boom. Investigation found a loose fuel gauge ground wire, possibly related to recent transmission removal.
Incident Overview
The pilot of a helicopter reported a total loss of engine power after setting cruise power, necessitating an off-airport landing. During the landing, the helicopter's main rotor blades impacted the tail boom.
Investigation Findings
Investigation revealed that the ground wire for the fuel gauge was loose. The helicopter's transmission had been removed less than ten hours before the accident, and the fuel gauge wires were disconnected during the transmission removal. The helicopter was equipped with a wooden dipstick that could be used to verify the amount of fuel in the fuel tank.
Additional Details
No other factors or circumstances were identified in the report. The occurrence happened during a cruise phase of flight. The helicopter was on the ground after the landing when the rotor blade strike occurred.