Forced/precautionary landing involving a Hughes Helicopters 369HS, VH-BAD, 59 km north-east of Scone (ALA), New South Wales, on 7 July 1995

The helicopter had been chartered for a wild-pig eradication program and was returning to its base at the conclusion of the day's activities. The pilot reported that the "engine" out light came on as he was climbing through a height of about 300 ft and at about 80 kts. In the subsequent forced landing, the helicopter touched down heavily on the side of a hill and rolled over. The three occupants escaped with minor injuries, but the helicopter was destroyed.

Investigation of the engine, its components, and fuel system failed to identify any defect likely to have caused the loss of power. However, it was noted during the course of the investigation that the reasons for a large percentage of reported engine failures in this type of helicopter were not determined.

Any results from research into safety deficiencies identified during this investigation will be published in the Bureau's Quarterly Safety Deficiency Reports.