On December 5, 1999, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N600CK) operated by Evergreen Helicopters, Intl. was involved in an aviation accident near Ship Shoal 225. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of power for undetermined reasons. A factor was the rough water condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced engine power loss at 150 feet over the Gulf of Mexico. The pilot autorotated, deployed floats, and landed hard. The helicopter remained upright and afloat but overturned in 6-8 foot waves and sank in 160 feet of water. The reason for the power loss could not be determined as the helicopter was not recovered.
Accident Overview
A helicopter was en route over the Gulf of Mexico, approximately halfway to its intended destination, when the engine lost power. The aircraft was flying at an altitude of about 150 feet above the water at the time of the failure.
Emergency Response
The pilot initiated an autorotation descent to the water and deployed the helicopter's floats. The helicopter landed hard on the water surface but remained upright and afloat. The pilot retrieved an emergency raft from the cabin and inflated it. After the pilot entered the raft, waves estimated at 6 to 8 feet overturned the helicopter, causing it to sink in water approximately 160 feet deep.
Loss of Helicopter
The helicopter was not recovered following the accident. Because the wreckage was not retrieved, investigators were unable to determine the reason for the loss of engine power.