Incident Overview
A helicopter returning from a local photography flight experienced an engine power loss during the landing flare, leading to a hard landing. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported executing a long approach toward the departure end of runway 30. During the landing flare at approximately 15 feet, the low fuel pressure light illuminated. After verifying that the fuel boost pump was on, the pilot rolled the throttle on, at which point the engine sputtered and went dead. The pilot then attempted an autorotative landing, which resulted in a hard touchdown.
Fueling Details
Fueling receipts from Rabbit Aviation Services indicate that the helicopter was fueled twice on the day of the accident. At 1125 hours, 32.9 gallons of fuel were added, and at 1403 hours, 39.4 gallons were added.
Aircraft Information
The helicopter was an Enstrom 280FX, which has a usable fuel capacity of 40 gallons. According to performance data, at 30 inches of manifold pressure and 78 percent power, the endurance at sea level is 2.0 hours. At 32 inches of manifold pressure and 83 percent power, the endurance is 1.8 hours. The pilot reported taking off at 1445 hours, and the accident occurred at approximately 1650 hours.