N9526

Substantial
None

BELL 47G-2AS/N: 1288-16

Accident Details

Date
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
NTSB Number
CEN09CA517
Location
Covert, MI
Event ID
20090811X72250
Coordinates
42.256942, -86.219718
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of blocked fuel vents.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
BELL
Serial Number
1288-16
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1954
Model / ICAO
47G-2AB47G
Aircraft Type
Rotorcraft
No. of Engines
1
Seats
3
FAA Model
47G-2A

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
DYKSTRA DONALD J
Address
1987 140TH AVE
City
DORR
State / Zip Code
MI 49323-9547
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot topped off the fuel tanks prior to takeoff. Approximately two hours later, a loss of engine power was experienced. The pilot performed an autorotation to a field, however, the tail rotor contacted a 4x4 wooden post during the landing. This resulted in substantial damage to the tail boom. Inspection of the helicopter revealed the left fuel tank was empty and the right fuel tank was full. Inspection of the fuel system revealed the right tank fuel vent was completely blocked by mud dauber debris along with the remains of two mud daubers. The left fuel tank vent was partially blocked by mud dauber debris. Both tanks feed to a central line which provides fuel to the engine. In addition, the nut on the T-fitting from the left tank fuel line was found finger tight.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN09CA517