Incident Overview
A helicopter conducting low-level maneuvers for utility line observation collided with the ground during a training flight. The purpose of the flight was to practice techniques for observing utility lines from low altitudes.
Environmental Conditions
The temperature at the time of the incident was in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The pilot was operating the helicopter at an altitude of 100 feet above ground level at slow airspeeds. The density altitude was estimated at 4,200 feet.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot's account, the helicopter began a right turn. Shortly after initiating the turn, the helicopter began descending. The pilot reported adding power in an attempt to arrest the descent, but the helicopter continued settling until it collided with the ground.
Outcome
The helicopter struck the ground following the uncontrolled descent. No further details regarding the extent of damage or injuries were provided in the initial report.