Summary
On May 06, 2006, a Helo Werks HX-1 Wasp (N636WP) was involved in an accident near Hampton Roads, VA. The accident resulted in 1 serious injury. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident to be: The inadvertent activation of the helicopter manufacturer's improperly located, unguarded fuel shutoff switch.
During a flight test of the experimental helicopter, the pilot inadvertently shut off the fuel supply to the engine while flaring to land, approximately 15 feet above the ground. The helicopter impacted the ground tail first, the landing gear cross tubes collapsed and broke at the fuselage attach points, and the main rotor struck the tail boom. Examination of the helicopter revealed that the fuel shut off switch was unguarded and mounted on the cyclic.
This accident is documented in NTSB report NYC06CA110. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N636WP.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The inadvertent activation of the helicopter manufacturer's improperly located, unguarded fuel shutoff switch.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
During a flight test of the experimental helicopter, the pilot inadvertently shut off the fuel supply to the engine while flaring to land, approximately 15 feet above the ground. The helicopter impacted the ground tail first, the landing gear cross tubes collapsed and broke at the fuselage attach points, and the main rotor struck the tail boom. Examination of the helicopter revealed that the fuel shut off switch was unguarded and mounted on the cyclic.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# NYC06CA110