Incident Overview
A helicopter pilot reported that while in cruise flight at 700 feet above a residential area, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine and rotor rpm. According to the pilot, the carburetor heat was not activated as required by the pilot operating handbook. The pilot lowered the collective pitch and increased throttle, but these actions had negative results.
Forced Landing
Recognizing the need to land, the pilot initiated a forced landing toward a field but realized the aircraft would not reach it. The pilot then made a forced landing onto a residential carport. During the landing, the right skid slipped through the roof, causing the aircraft to roll over onto its right side. The main rotor blades collided with the roof.
Examination and Testing
A post-incident examination of the airframe and flight controls revealed no evidence of a precrash mechanical failure or malfunction. The engine assembly was removed and mounted in a dynamometer test cell. When started, the engine produced power.
Conclusion
The pilot's statement indicates a loss of engine and rotor rpm while in cruise flight over a residential area. The pilot did not activate the carburetor heat as specified in the pilot operating handbook. The aircraft sustained damage during the forced landing onto a carport, and subsequent testing of the engine showed it was capable of producing power.