Helicopter Tail Rotor Strike During Forced Landing After Engine Power Loss (N51862)

Accident Overview

A pilot engaged in a fertilizer spreading operation using an external load bucket reported that, shortly after lifting off, the helicopter's engine experienced a partial loss of power at an altitude of approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL). The pilot initiated a descent and released the external load bucket. While maneuvering to land, the tail rotor struck the ground, followed by contact of the main rotor blades with the terrain. The helicopter came to rest lying on its right side.

Post-Accident Inspection

Examination of the helicopter after the accident revealed that the movable breaker of the left magneto breaker point assembly was broken off and found lying in the bottom of the magneto housing. No other anomalies were reported in the inspection.

Sequence of Events

• The pilot had just lifted off for the fertilizer spreading operation with an external load bucket.
• At 100 ft AGL, the engine suffered a partial power loss.
• The pilot began a descent and disengaged the bucket.
• During the attempted landing, the tail rotor made contact with the ground, followed by the main rotor blades.
• The helicopter came to rest on its right side.

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter.