Robinson R-22 N224LC

Summary

On 19 January 2004 at about 19:30 local time, a Robinson R-22 registered N224LC was involved in an accident near Nicholasville, Kentucky, United States. One person was on board and nobody was injured. The aircraft was destroyed. The NTSB has published a probable cause for this accident; it is quoted in full below.

Date

19 January 2004 at 19:30

Classification

Accident

Location

Nicholasville, Kentucky, United States

Coordinates

37.8669, -84.5214

Aircraft

Robinson R-22

Registration

N224LC

Category

Helicopter

Engines

1

Operator

Not recorded

Operating rule

Part 91: General Aviation

Purpose of flight

Flight Test

Phase of flight

Not recorded

Route

Nicholasville → Nicholasville

Aircraft damage

Destroyed

Weather

VMC

Light

Day

NTSB number

NYC04LA059

Nobody was injured.

A leak in the fuel system due to a loose fitting, which resulted in a loss of engine power, and the inadequate maintenance inspection, which failed to detect/correct the security of the fitting.

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record. This site does not paraphrase or interpret it.

Read the full NTSB narrative

During takeoff, at an altitude of about 150 feet, the helicopter lost power and altitude. The pilot then performed an emergency landing to an open field, and a post-crash fire ensued. Examination of the engine revealed the main fuel line to the carburetor was separated and sitting just below its 90-degree elbow fitting. The threads of the elbow fitting displayed severe fire damage and downward melting, and the line end of the fitting was filled with melted aluminum. The "B-nut," used to secure the fuel line to elbow fitting, was loose, and "tooling marks" were observed on the fitting. The last 100-hour inspection was performed approximately 7 hours prior to the accident. According to 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix D - Scope and Detail of Items (as Applicable to the Particular Aircraft) To Be Included in Annual and 100 Hour Inspections, "Each person performing an annual or 100 hour inspection shall inspect (where applicable) components of the engine and nacelle group...(7) Lines, hoses, and clamps - for leaks, improper condition and looseness."

Quoted verbatim from the NTSB record.