On January 30, 1997, an Enstrom F-28C (registration N51774) was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Jackson, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the #2 cylinder for an undetermined reason which resulted in an exhaust leak that melted an oil line. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A flight instructor and student were practicing takeoffs when the helicopter lost power at 400 ft AGL. After landing on a taxiway, an engine fire destroyed the aircraft.
Incident Overview
A flight instructor and a student were conducting takeoff and landing practice. During the second or third takeoff, at approximately 400 feet above ground level, the helicopter began to lose power. The instructor turned the helicopter back toward the airport and began a descent while engine power continued to diminish. Before reaching the ground, the engine lost all power.
Landing and Fire
The helicopter touched down on a taxiway. After landing, the instructor observed flames coming from the engine compartment. He shut down the engine and attempted to extinguish the fire with a hand-held fire extinguisher, but was unsuccessful. The fire destroyed the helicopter.
Engine Examination
An examination of the engine by the operator revealed a hole melted out above the exhaust port of the number 2 cylinder. According to the operator, the resulting exhaust gas leak severed the number 4 cylinder oil line and started a fire.