On August 14, 2004, a Bell 47G2 (registration N96MB) was involved in an aviation accident near Muncie, IN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failure for an undetermined reason, and the pilot's inability to properly level-off for landing due to the low rotor speed, which resulted in the hard landing. The low altitude where the engine failure occurred was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter was damaged during a forced landing after a complete loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot performed an autorotation, but the helicopter struck the ground, collapsing the skids and breaking apart. No engine defects were found.
Accident Details
A helicopter sustained substantial damage when it impacted terrain during an attempted forced landing. The event occurred shortly after takeoff, when the helicopter was at an altitude of approximately 50 feet and an airspeed of 45 miles per hour. The pilot reported hearing two loud "bangs" followed by a complete loss of engine power.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that he initiated an autorotation toward a flat area near the airport. As the helicopter approached touchdown, he raised the collective to cushion the impact. However, due to the low altitude, the rotor speed was insufficient to arrest the descent. The helicopter struck the ground in a level attitude while moving forward. Upon impact, the skids collapsed and the helicopter broke apart.
Investigation Findings
Investigators examined the helicopter's engine and found no defects. The cause of the power loss was not determined from the engine inspection.
What happened in the 14 Aug 2004 Bell 47G2 accident near Muncie, IN?
A helicopter was damaged during a forced landing after a complete loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot performed an autorotation, but the helicopter struck the ground, collapsing the skids and breaking apart. No engine defects were found.
Were there any fatalities in the 14 Aug 2004 Bell 47G2 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Aug 2004 involved a Bell 47G2, registration N96MB, at Muncie, IN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The engine failure for an undetermined reason, and the pilot's inability to properly level-off for landing due to the low rotor speed, which resulted in the hard landing. The low altitude where the engine failure occurred was a factor.
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