What happened
On February 27, 2024, at approximately 1330 Hawaii-Aleutian standard time, an MD Helicopter 369E (registration N633JH) was conducting a Part 135 sightseeing flight near the northern shoreline of Kauai, Hawaii. During the doors-off flight, the pilot detected the smell of smoke and began navigating toward a predetermined emergency landing zone at Kalalau Beach. Shortly after, the pilot heard a loud pop and heard the engine-out aural warning tone.
In response to the engine failure, the pilot initiated an autorotation to land at an alternative, smaller emergency site known as Honopu Beach. As the aircraft touched down on the sand, it rocked forward and the nose entered the sand. The helicopter then rolled onto its right side. The accident resulted in one serious injury and four minor injuries; there were no fatalities.
The investigation
An examination by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following the accident revealed that the engine-to-transmission driveshaft and the overrunning clutch were fractured. Investigators from the NTSB Alaska Regional Office and a helicopter aerospace engineer examined the wreckage in Lihue, Hawaii. Various components were retained for further testing.