Probable cause
A total loss of engine power during descent for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident engine examinations and testing revealed no evidence of an anomaly that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during a maintenance release flight, he entered a simulated autorotation to check the main rotor rpm. When the pilot retarded the throttle, the engine lost power. The pilot subsequently conducted an off-airport landing. During the landing, the main rotor blade struck the tailboom, which then separated from the airframe.
During postaccident engine test runs in both the airframe and a test cell, the engine ran normally. Postaccident engine examinations revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA408 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 9, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Grand Canyon, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Grand Canyon National Park (GCN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell Helicopter Textron 206L-1
- N-number
- N5745Y
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Flight test
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.