Bell 206B, VH-XDM, Rudal River (320 km east of Newman), Western Australia, on 10 July 1990

199000092

Summary

Circumstances:

The pilot reported that at approximately 150 feet after take-off, the engine power began to reduce and the engine out warning sounded. An autorotational landing was carried out, during which the main rotor blades collided with the tail boom. Inspection of the engine and its components, indicated that a partially blocked fuel nozzle had caused uneven combustion which in turn, resulted in a loss of power output. The nozzle, which had been tested serviceable and installed in the engine one hour prior to the accident, was later found to contain a piece of foreign matter which caused an uneven spray pattern at high operating fuel pressures.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199000092
Occurrence date 10/07/1990
Location Rudal River (320 km east of Newman)
State Western Australia
Report release date 30/10/1990
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 206
Registration VH-XDM
Serial number 664
Sector Helicopter
Operation type Aerial Work
Departure point Rudal River WA
Destination Rudal River WA
Damage Substantial