Incident Overview
A Hughes 369D helicopter collided with terrain after maneuvering within the crater at Mount St. Helens. According to the pilot, an engine-out warning indication occurred, prompting an autorotation. The aircraft sustained damage during the landing, and the powerplant required shutdown after the crash.
Passenger Accounts
Both rear seat passengers reported seeing volcanic ash entering their windows just prior to the impact. A third passenger, along with the two rear-seat occupants, stated that the pilot had been planning to land inside the crater at the request of the fourth passenger.
Post-Accident Inspection
During a subsequent post-accident check, the engine operated satisfactorily, with no anomalies detected. The powerplant had been shut down following the crash landing.