Investigation number
199301537
Occurrence date
State
Queensland
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence type
Forced/precautionary landing
Occurrence category
Accident

The pilot stated that he had just refuelled the aircraft. The subsequent engine start and takeoff were normal. However, as the helicopter was accelerating through about 60 knots, the engine began to lose power, with decreasing RPM evident. As the pilot lowered the collective pitch control, the engine stopped. The pilot conducted an autorotation on to a road, but touched down in a high nose attitude and broke the right skid. The engine had operated normally prior to the occurrence. The refuelling operation was the first from a newly opened drum but there was no indication of fuel contamination. Operation of the aircraft requires the fuel boost pump to be ON during takeoff and landing and when flying below 140 metres above ground level. The pilot was not certain that he had switched the pump on before takeoff. It is possible, therefore, that the engine failed due to fuel starvation.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Hughes Helicopters
Model
269A
Registration
VH-MAY
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Brookdale Station QLD
Destination
Brookdale Station QLD
Damage
Substantial