Accident Overview
A helicopter with a pilot and passenger on board was involved in an accident during a departure from a clearing. The clearing was approximately 40 feet wide by 150 feet long and surrounded by very tall trees. The pilot reported that the helicopter was within its maximum gross weight at the time of the accident.
Departure and Loss of Power
According to the pilot, he performed a normal run-up and lifted the helicopter to a hover. He applied full throttle and maintained a rotor speed of 3,100 RPM. As the helicopter began to accelerate forward at an estimated 12 to 15 knots, the RPM dropped to 3,000. In response, the pilot lowered the collective to prevent a further decrease in rotor speed.
Rotor Strike and Impact
Shortly after the power loss, the helicopter's main rotor blades contacted a pine tree approximately 30 feet above the ground. Following the strike, the helicopter rolled to the left and impacted the ground. The elevation at the accident site was about 1,800 feet above mean sea level.
Post-Accident Observations
The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter's airframe or engine. After the accident, the pilot stated that the helicopter did not have enough power available to climb and that he should never have landed in the clearing.