What happened
Prior to departure, the Robinson R22 (implied type based on context of flight manual references) had its main and auxiliary fuel tanks topped off. Witnesses observed the pilot and passenger board the aircraft and noted a normal engine start. After idling for two minutes, the engine RPM increased to full power. The helicopter initially lifted approximately 3 to 4 feet before setting down in a controlled manner. Following a brief decrease in RPM, the engine returned to full power. The aircraft then lifted off, turned west, and moved about 30 feet toward a closed taxiway marked with a yellow X, where it set down heavily. Witnesses reported difficulty attempting to maintain lift. After several seconds, the helicopter lifted again, dragging the forward portion of the skids on the taxiway, and departed to the west without gaining significant altitude. The aircraft subsequently impacted trees and rising mountainous terrain approximately 7.8 miles from the airport.
The investigation
The investigation determined that the helicopter's gross weight at the time of departure was 1,459.25 lbs, which exceeded the maximum allowable gross weight of 1,370 lbs. This weight included the occupants, baggage, and full fuel tanks. Environmental conditions played a significant role, as the density altitude at the departure airport was calculated at 8,702 feet, while the accident site was at 10,681 feet. The investigation noted that performance specifications for in-ground-effect (IGE) and out-of-ground-effect (OGE) hover ceilings were not available for weights exceeding the 1,370 lbs limit. An engine test run performed on the airframe revealed no anomalies or discrepancies.