Accident Overview
A helicopter was engaged in a low-altitude, low-speed search for lost mining equipment under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). A VFR flight plan had been filed for the mission.
Power Train Failure and Emergency Descent
During the search, the power train failed. The pilot, who was looking out of the cockpit, heard the engine-out audio alert in his headset. He initiated a descending maneuver, successfully avoiding trees in the area.
Hard Landing and Rollover
The helicopter made a hard landing on a steep slope. The impact caused the aircraft to roll over. The helicopter came to rest after the rollover.
Outcome
The helicopter came to rest on its side on the steep slope.
Probable Cause
The probable cause, as stated in the investigation source, is a power train failure.