Accident Overview
On the morning of the accident, a private helicopter pilot was conducting a 132-mile VFR cross-country flight. The pilot, who held a private certificate but was not instrument rated, encountered fog and low ceilings along the route. The accident occurred at 0807 local time; sunrise had occurred at 0619.
Witness Observations
Witnesses near the accident site reported observing the helicopter in a nose-down attitude before hearing the sound of impact with trees. Visibility in the area was described by several witnesses as ranging from as low as 100 feet to as high as one-quarter mile. The ceiling was obscured due to fog. Residents noted that fog tends to form around sunrise during that time of year.
Accident Site Evidence
Physical evidence at the accident site indicated that the helicopter struck trees and terrain in a 45-degree nose-low attitude while in a slight right turn. The pilot had accumulated a total of 187 flight hours. No evidence of pre-impact mechanical failure or malfunction was observed. The investigation found no anomalies that could have prevented normal flight operation.
Investigation Findings
The investigation concluded that there was no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction prior to impact. The weather conditions at the time included low visibility and obscured ceilings due to fog, which were consistent with witness reports.