What happened
The aircraft was operating in cruise flight when the engine experienced a complete failure of power output. In response to the emergency, the pilot initiated an autorotation sequence to maintain rotor RPM and control descent rate. A suitable area for a forced landing was identified and selected by the pilot.
As the helicopter approached the ground, the pilot attempted to execute a flare maneuver to reduce forward speed and vertical descent rate. However, the application of collective pitch occurred later than optimal for a safe touchdown. Consequently, the helicopter impacted the terrain with significant force, striking the ground right skid first. The impact energy caused the main rotor blades to strike and damage the tailboom assembly.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the fuel system components of the helicopter. Visual inspection of both the left and right fuel tanks indicated that they contained little or no fuel at the time of the examination, suggesting the tanks were effectively empty.