Helicopter forced landing following engine oil pressure loss

Casualties unknown • Tampa, FL, US

A helicopter pilot was forced to perform an autorotation after encountering engine oil pressure loss and high temperatures, resulting in a collision with power lines.

What happened

Ten minutes after beginning the flight, the pilot observed a decrease in engine oil pressure accompanied by high engine oil temperature. Following the loss of engine power, the pilot initiated an autorotation to perform a forced landing. During this maneuver, the helicopter collided with high tension wires before falling to the ground.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft revealed that the engine oil pressure screen housing was loose. According to the Director of Aircraft Maintenance, a 50-hour inspection had been performed on the helicopter on July 5, 1996. This maintenance task included an oil change and the removal of the oil pressure screen housing for inspection purposes. Additionally, maintenance personnel had observed a small puddle of oil on the ramp at the location where the aircraft departed.

Probable cause

The loose engine oil pressure screen housing led to a loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine power loss during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-07-07 Hughes 269B accident near Tampa, FL?

A helicopter pilot was forced to perform an autorotation after encountering engine oil pressure loss and high temperatures, resulting in a collision with power lines.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-07-07 involved a Hughes 269B, registration N10TP, at Tampa, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loose engine oil pressure screen housing led to a loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine power loss during flight.

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