1996-08-19: Hughes 269A — Cedar Rapids, IA

Casualties unknown • Cedar Rapids, IA, US

Probable cause

partial blocking of the fuel injection control, and a fracture of the induction air ducting for reasons undetermined. A factor was trees.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot stated that he was in cruise flight when he heard a loud noise and the helicopter yawed to the left. He initiated an autorotational landing into a residential area where the helicopter impacted trees and the terrain. An examination of the engine found two pieces of plastic in the induction tubes. The pieces were found to have come from the induction housing, but the reason for the fracture was not determined. The two pieces fitted together and could be positioned to block the fuel injection control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-08-19 Hughes 269A accident near Cedar Rapids, IA?

The pilot stated that he was in cruise flight when he heard a loud noise and the helicopter yawed to the left. He initiated an autorotational landing into a residential area where the helicopter impacted trees and the terrain. An examination of the engine found two pieces of plastic in the induction tubes. The pieces…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-08-19 involved a Hughes 269A, registration N7052A, at Cedar Rapids, IA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

partial blocking of the fuel injection control, and a fracture of the induction air ducting for reasons undetermined. A factor was trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06481. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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