What happened
The incident occurred during a commercial aerial observation flight. The pilot activated the cockpit heating system, which caused a copperhead snake to emerge from the heat vent located near his feet. As the pilot maneuvered the aircraft toward a suitable landing area, the reptile appeared poised to strike.
In an attempt to eliminate the threat, the pilot tried to step on the snake with his foot. This action caused him to lose control of the helicopter. The aircraft subsequently contacted trees and terrain, resulting in its destruction. The snake was not recovered after the accident.
The investigation
Post-accident testing of the pilot revealed negative results for drugs, alcohol, and snake venom.