Accident Details
A helicopter flight with a pilot and two passengers intended to take aerial pictures. While in level flight at 120 mph and 300 feet above ground, the pilot initiated a pitch over for picture taking. At that moment, the fuel flow appeared to cavitate. The forward fuel pump was determined to be inoperative just before the helicopter touched down, indicated by a warning light and the audio engine warning horn. The pilot performed a full safe autorotation to touchdown in a field, 1/4 mile from where the engine lost power.
Landing and Damage
Upon touchdown, the helicopter rocked forward and the main rotor blades struck the tail boom.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection verified that the electrical fuel boost pump was inoperative.