Preliminary Report: Engine failure downs EMS 407

Bell 407, Kalispell, Mont., Nov. 2, 2006–Departing Kalispell Regional Medical Center, the EMS helicopter lost power shortly after takeoff after the flight paramedic pointed out to the pilot an engine “chip light.” The pilot turned back to the hospital helipad but had to make an emergency autorotation landing when the engine quit. The three occupants were not injured, but the tailboom was damaged.

The operator indicated that the helicopter experienced an uncontained engine failure. Pieces of the power turbine were found in a parking area adjacent to the landing area.