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NTSB Report
August 11, 2009 · Bell 47G-2A · N9526
Covert, MI
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 11, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Covert, MI
Aircraft
Bell 47G-2A
Tail Number
N9526
Operator
Paul Ekoniak
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN09CA517
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.
NTSB Probable Cause
Environmental issues-Physical environment-Object/animal/substance-Fence/fence post-Contributed to outcome
Full Narrative
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.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time15:00 EDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBell 47G-2A
Tail NumberN9526
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorPaul Ekoniak
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · VO-540 SERIES · Reciprocating · 310
Seats3
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 69 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind350° @ 9 kt, gusting 15 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point66 F
Altimeter29.98 inHg
Observation Time17:53