Bell 206B III N360AW accident near Ponderosa, New Mexico

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because the postaccident examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported a total loss of engine power that occurred while flying at 50 miles per hour, at an altitude of about 200 feet above ground level during a wildlife survey. He stated that there were no unusual noises or warnings before the loss of engine power and that the engine spooled down just as if he were shutting the engine down. During the autorotation the helicopter lost rotor rpm, resulting in a hard touchdown. The main rotor blades partially severed the tail boom, and the helicopter rolled over on its left side. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have caused the loss of engine power. With the exception of a momentary power surge, the engine operated normally during an engine run. Both centrifugal fuel pumps were tested, and one was subsequently torn down; no anomalies with the fuel pumps were discovered that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA158 for the full record.