Event Description
A Bell 206L-1 helicopter experienced a loss of engine power approximately 50 feet above ground level (agl) after liftoff. At the time of the power loss, the helicopter was operating at an airspeed and altitude combination below the height/velocity curve. The pilot attempted to execute an autorotation but was unable to do so successfully. The helicopter subsequently contacted the ground with a high rate of descent. During the impact, the main rotor blade contacted the tail boom.
Fuel System Status
Before takeoff, the pilot had not engaged the fuel boost pump circuit breakers. At the time of the incident, the helicopter contained less than 200 pounds of fuel. The Bell 206L-1 flight manual, revision 21, includes a warning stating: "If both fuel boost pumps fail, unusable fuel may be as high as 150 pounds due to inability to transfer fuel from the forward cells."
Aircraft Information
The accident aircraft was a Bell 206L-1 helicopter. The event occurred during the initial climb phase of flight. No further aircraft or operational details are available in the source.