Investigation number
198700102
Occurrence date
Location
14 km SE Karratha
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

After consultation with his passengers regarding the expected duration of the return survey flight, the pilot decided that he needed only one 200 litre drum to refuel. Just short of Karratha he advised the passengers that he would have to land due low fuel state. During the descent the engine stopped, due to fuel starvation, and the helicopter was substantially damaged in the resulting heavy landing on a dirt road, in fading light. The pilot was unfamiliar with the fuel system installed in the aircraft. The duration of the return flight was increased by a requirement to complete an extra task. However, when the pilot became aware that insufficient fuel remained to complete the flight with the required reserves, he elected to continue the flight to the planned destination. The landing was only attempted when the pilot became concerned that all the fuel would be exhausted before arrival at the destination. This accident was not the subject of an on-site investigation _

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Bell Helicopter Co
Model
206
Registration
VH-BEQ
Serial number
8032
Operation type
Charter
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Yandeearra WA
Departure time
1658
Destination
Karratha WA
Damage
Substantial