Engine failure due to fuel exhaustion leads to helicopter crash in Kungsängen

Casualties unknown • Accident involving the helicopter SE-JKJ outside Kungsängen, SE

An MD 600N helicopter experienced an engine shutdown during flight near Kungsängen, resulting in an emergency landing and substantial aircraft damage.

What happened

On July 14, 2014, an MD 600N helicopter, registration SE-JKJ, was conducting a private VFR flight from Frösön to Bromma. While cruising at approximately 1,500 feet near Kungsängen, the engine stopped due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot, who was alone on board, initiated an autorotation to locate a suitable site for an emergency landing. During the attempt to land, the helicopter overturned, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot escaped the wreckage without any injuries.

The investigation

SHK investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system, maintenance records, and the circumstances surrounding the engine failure. The investigation focused on why the engine ceased operation despite having approximately 30 liters of usable fuel remaining in the tanks. Technical inspections of the engine and fuel system were conducted, alongside a review of the maintenance history provided by various continuing airworthiness management organizations (CAMOs).

Findings

  • The engine stopped because the fuel transfer system failed to deliver remaining fuel to the engine.
  • A clogged check valve, caused by contamination, prevented the fuel from being transferred.
  • The required annual functional check of the fuel transfer system had not been performed for several years.
  • The aircraft's maintenance program failed to include the updated maintenance instructions issued by the type certificate holder.
  • The helicopter was technically not airworthy because the mandatory functional checks were omitted and the aircraft had undergone unauthorized external foiling/striping.
  • The emergency landing was performed in a tailwind, which contributed to the severity of the impact.

Probable cause

The engine failure was caused by fuel exhaustion resulting from a malfunctioning fuel transfer system, specifically a check valve blocked by contaminants. This failure was compounded by the omission of mandatory annual functional checks in the aircraft's maintenance program.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2014-07-14 aircraft accident near Accident involving the helicopter SE-JKJ outside Kungsängen, SE?

An MD 600N helicopter experienced an engine shutdown during flight near Kungsängen, resulting in an emergency landing and substantial aircraft damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2014-07-14 involved a aircraft, registration SE-JKJ, at Accident involving the helicopter SE-JKJ outside Kungsängen, SE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was caused by fuel exhaustion resulting from a malfunctioning fuel transfer system, specifically a check valve blocked by contaminants. This failure was compounded by the omission of mandatory annual functional checks in the aircraft's maintenance program.

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