Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary NYC06CA110

Hampton Roads, VA, USA

Aircraft #1

N636WP

Helo Werks HX-1 Wasp

Analysis

Same as Factual Information

Factual Information

During a flight test of the experimental helicopter, the pilot inadvertently shut off the fuel supply to the engine while flaring to land, approximately 15 feet above the ground. The helicopter impacted the ground tail first, the landing gear cross tubes collapsed and broke at the fuselage attach points, and the main rotor struck the tail boom. Examination of the helicopter revealed that the fuel shut off switch was unguarded and mounted on the cyclic.

Probable Cause and Findings

The inadvertent activation of the helicopter manufacturer's improperly located, unguarded fuel shutoff switch.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

Get all the details on your iPhone or iPad with:

Aviation Accidents App

In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports