Accident Overview
A helicopter sustained substantial damage when it impacted water while maneuvering over Potato Lake. The pilot was conducting a low-altitude flight to obtain water and shoreline footage.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that after performing a high reconnaissance and observing no boat traffic, they initiated a descent at 80 mph and 600 feet per minute. The descent was intended to continue until treetop level, then transition to a level cruise over the lake at 60-80 mph, followed by a climb-out. After reaching the target altitude, confirmed by the sight picture of the left and right shorelines, the pilot raised collective pitch with simultaneous forward cyclic pressure to commence the cruise. The engine appeared non-responsive to power demand, and the descent was not arrested. Additional collective input yielded no response. The helicopter was leveled and impacted the water with forward velocity.
Passenger Statement
The front left seat passenger reported that no pre-flight safety briefing or instructions were given by the pilot. They noted that the helicopter was flying very low over the lake. Suddenly, the helicopter dove nose-first into the lake and began to sink. The passenger could not unbuckle the safety harness and struggled before eventually wriggling out of the buckled strap. Two rear passengers were not wearing their seat belts.
Investigation Findings
Wind was calm, sky condition clear, and temperature 20°C. An on-scene investigation of the recovered wreckage revealed no pre-impact anomalies. A study of an on-board video revealed sounds consistent with the gas producer section of the engine and the main rotor system.