What happened
The pilot was conducting a positioning flight at an altitude of 1000 feet above ground level when the aircraft suddenly lost power. The loss of engine power was attributed to carburetor ice formation. In response to the emergency, the pilot initiated an autorotation into a large open area nearby. The landing was executed with significant force, resulting in a hard impact.
Upon impact, the main rotor struck the tail boom of the helicopter. This collision caused a rupture in a hydraulic line, which subsequently ignited a small post-crash fire. Despite the structural damage and fire, the pilot managed to evacuate the scene.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft to determine the extent of the damage and the cause of the power loss. A test run of the engine was conducted after the accident to verify its mechanical integrity. The test results indicated that the engine operated satisfactorily, suggesting that the power loss was not due to an internal mechanical failure but rather environmental factors.
Findings
The investigation concluded that the primary factor leading to the accident was the formation of carburetor ice, which caused a sudden loss of engine power. The hard landing and subsequent damage were direct consequences of the emergency maneuver required to avoid a more severe outcome in populated areas.