Incident Overview
A pilot conducting an external load operation with a 100-foot long line experienced a loss of control leading to a crash. The helicopter was equipped with four remote hooks on the long line, three of which had cable bags attached. While waiting for the fourth bag to be filled, the pilot decided to land in an open area. He set the external load down and laid the long line out over the ground, landing the helicopter when the long line was nearly extended away from the load.
Flight and Maneuvers
When the fourth bag was ready to be slung out, the pilot lifted off in winds that were gusting to 15 knots. At a height of approximately 40 feet, he made a left rudder turn (crosswind) to better observe his long line. He realized that he was drifting downwind at about the time he thought he detected a power surge. He then directed his attention to the engine instruments.
Loss of Control
At approximately the same time, the helicopter rolled onto its left side and crashed. An examination of the wreckage was conducted, but no mechanical part failure or malfunction was found.
Investigation Findings
The investigation did not identify any mechanical issues. The sequence of events indicates that the pilot's attention was diverted to the engine instruments after suspecting a power surge, coinciding with a downwind drift and a roll to the left.