N4027L

On October 9, 1997, at 1700 central daylight time, a Hiller UH-12E, N4027L, received substantial damage after impacting terrain during a forced landing following a total loss of engine power on initial climb out. The commercial pilot reported no injuries. The personal 14 CFR Part 91 flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions. No flight plan was on file. The flight departed from a private airstrip in Liberty, Nebraska, at 1655.

In a written statement, the pilot reported, "the aircraft was preflighted, started, and warmed up with temperatures and pressures in the green." Following the engine warm-up the pilot began a hover, cleared the area, and proceeded to takeoff. The pilot indicated in his report that, "approximately around 150 feet the engine stopped producing power." The pilot stated that he, "was approximately between 30 and 50 mph, tried to quick-stop, was too low and did not have enough altitude to autorotate the aircraft." The pilot proceeded to execute a run-on landing, which resulted in the aircraft sliding 40 feet after contact with the ground. The pilot reported that the aircraft, "came to a terrace and very slowly rolled onto its side."

A post accident investigation, conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration, disclosed no discrepancies in the fuel system, engine control system, valve train, and accessory section. A fuel sample was taken, which showed proper color (blue) and lacking contaminating material. The carburetor, fuel pump, and magnetos were removed for operational tests. Functional tests of the removed components established proper operation.