N17H

Substantial
Serious

CONTINENTAL COPTERS INC. TOMCAT MK6BS/N: 13

Accident Details

Date
Sunday, August 7, 2016
NTSB Number
CEN16CA321
Location
Sparland, IL
Event ID
20160815X32841
Coordinates
41.029724, -89.440551
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
1
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, a total loss of engine power, and a forced landing.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
CONTINENTAL COPTERS INC.
Serial Number
13
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1947
Model / ICAO
TOMCAT MK6B
Aircraft Type
Rotorcraft
No. of Engines
1
Seats
3
FAA Model
TOMCAT MK6B

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
HENDRICKSON FLYING SERVICE INC
Address
21532 QUITNO RD
City
ROCHELLE
State / Zip Code
IL 61068-9413
Country
United States

Analysis

Prior to departure from the field service vehicle assisting with the aerial application flight, the pilot checked his fuel gauges and his personal timer for fuel load estimation. The pilot's plan was to complete a field he had been applying chemical and thought he had enough fuel to complete the short flight. While maneuvering in a slow left turn near the field, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot maneuvered the helicopter to avoid trees and the helicopter experienced a hard forced landing to an adjacent field. The pilot sustained serious injuries and the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. Examination of the helicopter by a representative of the operator showed the fuel tanks and fuel lines contained no fuel. The loss of engine power was consistent with fuel exhaustion.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN16CA321