Accident Details
According to the pilot, during takeoff at an altitude of 10 feet above ground level (AGL), a loss of power occurred. During the subsequent forced landing, the left skid of the helicopter contacted either the landing pad or an object on the pad, causing the aircraft to roll over to the left. The pilot stated that whiteout conditions occurred during the attempted takeoff and forced landing due to snow being picked up by the rotor wash.
Post-Accident Inspection
Following the accident, the aircraft's engine and fuel system were inspected and no discrepancies were found.
Pre-Takeoff Setup
Prior to takeoff, the aircraft was hooked up to a battery box with a 25-foot extension cord to operate a battery blanket and two aircraft heaters. A section of the extension cord was found near the wreckage, approximately 85 feet from another section that was still attached to the battery box. Examination of the cord revealed it had been torn in half by a pulling action.