Probable cause
A loss of engine coolant, which resulted in a loss of engine power during the pilot’s attempt to cushion a precautionary landing. Contributing to the accident was a disconnected engine coolant hose and the pilot's inadequate preflight inspection.
NTSB analysis
During a 50-minute flight the helicopter pilot observed the engine coolant temperature and the exhaust gas temperature increase. The pilot attempted a precautionary landing to a field; however, as he was adding power to cushion the landing, the engine lost power due to overheating. The helicopter then landed hard and rolled over. Postflight examination of the helicopter revealed that a coolant hose was disconnected and corrosion was noted on the radiator fins, indicating that leakage had occurred over a period of time. No coolant or coolant residue was found during the engine examination.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10LA216 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 7, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Middleboro, Massachusetts
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built REVOLUTION MINI 500
- N-number
- N118NR
- 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.