On October 3, 1997, a Bell 47G-2 (registration N2483B) operated by John A. Ochwatt was involved in an aviation accident near Burbank, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine sputtering and fuel consumption increase before a forced landing on a golf course, where the tail boom contacted the ground. The pilot initially cited fuel exhaustion but later showed metal chips from the fuel strainer.
Incident Details
A helicopter pilot experienced an increase in fuel consumption before the engine sputtered and stopped completely. The pilot executed a forced landing on a golf course, during which the tail boom made contact with the ground.
Pilot Reports and Statements
The pilot initially informed an FAA inspector that the incident was due to fuel exhaustion. However, the pilot later rescinded that statement and presented the inspector with metal chips that the pilot claimed were found in the fuel strainer. In a subsequent written report, the pilot stated that the helicopter departed Long Beach with 15 total gallons of fuel onboard and that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures. The fuel system has 2 unusable gallons.
Post-Incident Actions
Following recovery, the helicopter was relocated to an undisclosed location. The airframe and engine had been disassembled for repair purposes.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Oct 1997 Bell 47G-2 accident near Burbank, CA?
A pilot reported engine sputtering and fuel consumption increase before a forced landing on a golf course, where the tail boom contacted the ground. The pilot initially cited fuel exhaustion but later showed metal chips from the fuel strainer.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Oct 1997 involved a Bell 47G-2, registration N2483B, operated by John A. Ochwatt, at Burbank, CA.
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