Bell 47-G2, VH-KHK, "Toorey Plains" 50 nm east of Balranald, New South Wales, on 1 March 1989

198902546

Summary

Circumstances:

The pilot reported the aircraft had been flying for about two hours in low-level operations over his property. Shortly after placing the helicopter into a steep climbing turn the engine suffered a complete loss of power at a height of about 150 feet, and an airspeed of 30 knots. The aircraft was over scrub covered terrain. In the resulting forced landing, the tail boom was severed by the main rotor, and a landing skid was buckled. The pilot said there was an estimated 20 litres of fuel remaining but suspected the engine may have lost power due to fuel starvation as a result of the manoeuvres performed. This accident was not the subject of an on-site investigation. The information contained in this report was supplied by the pilot.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198902546
Occurrence date 01/03/1989
Location "Toorey Plains" 50 nm east of Balranald
Report release date 03/01/1990
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Bell Helicopter Co
Model 47
Registration VH-KHK
Serial number 2022
Sector Helicopter
Operation type Private
Departure point "Toory Plains" NSW
Destination "Toory Plains" NSW
Damage Substantial