NTSB Investigation of a Bell UH-1B Helicopter Crash in Amherstdale, West Virginia

On June 22, 2022, a Bell UH-1B helicopter (known as a “Huey”) was flown during the 7^th Annual Huey Reunion that took place in Logan, West Virginia. About 15 minutes into one of the flights, the helicopter’s Ozark Aeroworks T53-L-11D turboshaft engine lost power. During the subsequent forced landing, the helicopter struck power lines and crashed to the ground, resulting in fatal injuries to the pilot and 5 passengers. A detailed examination of the engine revealed evidence of progressive damage features in multiple components including fatigue fractures in a power turbine blade and the exhaust diffuser, a corroded cover flange, and a degraded bearing. Deficiencies in the inspection requirements for this former military aircraft that was operating under an experimental exhibition airworthiness certificate will be discussed, and a summary of the NTSB’s findings, probable cause, and recommendations for preventing a similar accident will be presented.