Hampton Roads, VA, USA
N636WP
Helo Werks HX-1 Wasp
Same as 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.
The inadvertent activation of the helicopter manufacturer's improperly located, unguarded fuel shutoff switch.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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