Accident Context
A helicopter on a ferry flight experienced a loss of power, leading to a forced landing. The landing was hard, and the helicopter impacted the ground on a sidewalk.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that while turning on a base leg for landing at approximately 200 feet, he heard a loud bang and the engine failed. He then pulled off rotor rpm to extend the glide, and the helicopter impacted the ground in a right turn.
Witness Statement
A witness reported hearing the engine die and observed the helicopter descending.
Injuries
The three occupants sustained serious injuries in the hard landing.
Engine Examination
The operator examined the engine and found an intermittent electrical open in the T-4 wiring harness splice. The specific components were an Aerospatiale part number 320570 extension lead and part number 327637 reduction. Movement of the wire resulted in a reduced indication of the T-4 temperature gauge by approximately 75 degrees at ground operating temperatures.