Accident Description
During a climbing right turn at approximately 300-400 feet above ground level, the helicopter's engine out audio alarm and warning light activated. The pilot responded by lowering the collective and nose to increase rotor RPM and airspeed. At 50 feet, the pilot initiated a flare, but after maneuvering to avoid trees, the rotor RPM had decayed too low. The aircraft then fell through the initial collective pitch pull, impacting the ground and rolling over onto its right side before coming to rest.
Post-Accident Inspection
An engine run conducted after the accident revealed no discrepancies. Examination of the airframe and flight controls also found no anomalies. No other issues were identified that could explain the activation of the engine out warning or the subsequent loss of rotor RPM.
Findings
The investigation did not identify any mechanical or structural failures. The pilot's actions in response to the warning light and alarm were noted, but the specific cause of the low rotor RPM during the flare was not determined from the available evidence.