On July 5, 2007, a Hughes 369D (registration N500NC) operated by Teryjon Aviation Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Comfrey, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power due to the loose pressure line during aerial application maneuvers which resulted in a hard forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced a loss of engine power during an aerial application spray run, leading to a forced landing that resulted in substantial damage. An examination found a loose fuel control pressure line.
Accident Details
A helicopter performing an aerial application spray run suffered a loss of engine power, necessitating a forced landing. The impact with terrain caused substantial damage to the aircraft.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that he was able to land with the skids square to the ground, but the helicopter bounced upon touchdown. The landing gear spread, making contact with the spray tanks and snapping the uprights above the tanks. Subsequently, a forward leg dug into the ground, causing the helicopter to pitch forward. One of the rotor blades struck the ground, and the rotor system then severed the boom fairing and tail section.
Examination Findings
During a post-accident examination of the wreckage, the pressure line connecting to the Pg boss on the fuel control unit was found to be only finger tight.