On 26 Feb 2015, a GADDIS MICHAEL EXEC 162 F NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, IN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the helicopter's main drive belt resulting in the pilot performing a forced landing, during which the helicopter's fuselage was substantially damage. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A helicopter experienced a sudden engine RPM increase, activating the rev limiter. The pilot autorotated to a baseball field, resulting in substantial fuselage damage. Examination revealed failure of the main drive belt.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that while in cruise flight, the engine RPM of the helicopter increased suddenly and sharply. This increase was enough to trigger the rev limiter, which is designed to prevent overspeed. At the time, the helicopter was flying at approximately 700 feet above ground level. In response, the pilot performed an autorotation, a procedure used when engine power is lost. The forced landing occurred in a baseball field. During the landing, the helicopter sustained substantial damage to its fuselage.
Investigation
A subsequent examination of the helicopter focused on the powertrain. The main drive belt, which connects the engine to the rotor system, was found to have failed. This belt is crucial for transmitting engine power to the main rotor. The failure of the belt is consistent with the reported loss of power and RPM surge. No other anomalies were reported.