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Helicopter Experiences Engine Power Loss During Long-Line Operations (N2062D)

Lake Kachess, WA, US

On November 23, 2000, a Bell 206 B3 (registration N2062D) was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Kachess, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to comply with the flight manual regarding the use of an induction system deflector kit (snow baffles) while operating in snow, and the ingestion of foreign material/snow that resulted in an engine flameout while hovering. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter conducting long-line operations suffered a sudden engine power loss, leading to a forced landing on a road. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical failure but noted the absence of required snow baffles.

Incident Overview

During long-line operations, a helicopter experienced a sudden loss of engine power. The pilot executed a forced landing to a nearby road.

Post-Accident Findings

Examination of the helicopter after the accident revealed that it was not equipped with an engine air induction system deflector kit, commonly known as snow baffles. The FAA-approved Rotorcraft Flight Manual for the helicopter specifies in its Limitations Section: "The following equipment shall be installed when conducting flight operations in falling and/or blowing snow to reduce the possibility of engine flameout: The Particle Separator Engine Air Induction System Kit and the Deflector Kit."

Meteorological Conditions

Weather observation (METAR) at Stampede Pass, approximately 4 miles northeast of the accident site at an elevation of 3,800 feet MSL, reported winds from 090 degrees at 5 knots, visibility 1/4 statute mile, heavy snow and freezing fog, broken clouds at 300 feet, overcast at 1,400 feet, temperature dew point 18°F, and temperature 16°F.

Engine Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the engine found no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Nov 2000 Bell 206 B3 accident near Lake Kachess, WA?

A helicopter conducting long-line operations suffered a sudden engine power loss, leading to a forced landing on a road. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical failure but noted the absence of required snow baffles.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Nov 2000 involved a Bell 206 B3, registration N2062D, at Lake Kachess, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to comply with the flight manual regarding the use of an induction system deflector kit (snow baffles) while operating in snow, and the ingestion of foreign material/snow that resulted in an engine flameout while hovering. A snow baffle deflector kit not being installed and snow are factors…

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001220X45468. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.