Accident Overview
A helicopter executed an autorotation to a county road after the engine flamed out. During the landing, the right skid gear fractured, causing the helicopter to roll over onto its right side. The pilot noted that he did not recall hearing an audio warning, and the rotor rpm had decreased before touchdown.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported making two precautionary landings earlier in the flight due to flying in visible precipitation. After each landing, he inspected the intake system and found no evidence of ice or snow buildup. The pilot stated that the engine flamed out without warning.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the engine was removed and tested in a test cell, where it operated normally. Investigators found sufficient fuel remaining in the helicopter. FAA inspectors noted that the loss of power occurred at an airspeed and altitude that may have precluded a successful forced landing.