May 7, 2016
Accident
Substantial Maxwell, CA
InjuriesNone
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 137
Probable Cause
A reduction in available engine power during takeoff due to a stuck hot air valve, which resulted in low rotor rpm and a forced landing. Contributing to the accident was the lack of dry film lubricant and the presence of corrosion on the hot air valve assembly, which resulted in the sticking of the valve.
NTSB WPR16LA104