Incident Overview
The pilot of helicopter VH-KJJ (KJJ) experienced a loss of engine power after a significant amount of water in the helicopter’s fuel system interrupted the flow of fuel to the engine. The engine lost power while the helicopter was in low-level cruise flight, a short time after refuelling from a local drum fuel supply.
Forced Landing and Impact
In response to the loss of engine power, the pilot entered autorotation and attempted a forced landing in a largely timbered environment. The impact damage to the helicopter from the forced landing was consistent with a high rate of descent at touchdown, most likely due to low main rotor revolutions per minute (RPM) in the latter stages of the autorotation.
Fuel Contamination
The analysis examined the circumstances surrounding the fuel contamination. Water entered the fuel system, disrupting the fuel supply to the engine and causing the power loss. Fuel-handling practices, including the use of a local drum fuel supply, were a focus of the investigation.
Operational Considerations
The report highlighted a number of important operational safety considerations in respect of fuel-handling practices and low-level helicopter operations. These considerations were drawn from the events of the incident.
Conclusion
The incident involved a loss of engine power due to water contamination in the fuel system, followed by an autorotation and forced landing that resulted in impact damage consistent with a high descent rate and low rotor RPM.