On July 30, 2003, a Hughes 269A (registration N81170) was involved in an aviation accident near Freer, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced an engine power loss at approximately 60 feet AGL, prompting a forced landing that resulted in a hard impact. Post-accident engine examination revealed no anomalies.
Incident
During maneuvering at an altitude of approximately 60 feet above ground level, the helicopter's engine lost power. The pilot reported hearing a "different sound emitted by the engine" which was "followed by a rapid decrease of engine rpm."
Pilot Response
The pilot, who had accumulated 4,700 hours of flight experience, initiated a forced landing to a nearby field. The landing was hard.
Investigation
An examination of the engine was conducted at the accident site. Rotational continuity was established throughout the engine. The clutch was engaged, the magnetos fired, and flight control continuity was verified. No anomalies were found on the engine that would have prevented normal operations.