Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The flight instructor reported that the helicopter experienced a loss of engine power after the student initiated a practice autorotation about 650 feet above ground level. The flight instructor then assumed control of the helicopter for an emergency landing. However, the helicopter touched down short of the runway, became airborne again, rotated 180 degrees to the left, and landed on the taxiway with the main rotor spinning down. During the postaccident examination, the engine started and ran with no evidence of preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The cause of the reported loss of engine power could not be duplicated.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA111 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 20, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kalispell, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Kalispell City Airport (S27)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Enstrom F28
- N-number
- N51727
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.