Probable cause
A loss of engine power in cruise flight for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during cruise flight, the engine ran rough for about three engine revolutions before losing total power. The pilot entered an emergency autorotation and landed the helicopter in a shallow bay. Postaccident examination of the helicopter did not reveal any mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation; however, a detailed engine examination was not completed. According to a carburetor icing probability chart, conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to severe carburetor icing at both cruise and glide power settings. Although carburetor icing was a possible initiating event for the loss of engine power, carburetor icing could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC11LA099 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 30, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Unalaska, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R22 BETA
- N-number
- N169CW
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.