Jul 14, 2005
Accident
Destroyed Fair Oaks, CA
Injuries2 fatal, 1 serious
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR PUBU
Probable Cause
The failure of the constant delta P diaphragm in the fuel control unit, which resulted in an increased fuel flow and subsequent catastrophic failure of the engine. The diaphragm's failure was the result of improper installation by the engine manufacturer. A factor in the accident was the unsuitable nature of the terrain for a successful autorotation.
NTSB LAX05GA231