Incident Overview
A Bell 206B helicopter engaged in long line operations experienced a loss of engine power. The aircraft was flying at 20 mph over a wooded area while transitioning between two pickup locations approximately 1,000 feet apart. No suitable landing area was available in the immediate vicinity.
Pilot Actions
The pilot extended the glide to reach a suitable landing area. During this maneuver, the main rotor rpm decreased. The subsequent touchdown was hard, resulting in the forward skid tube spreading apart and the rear skid tube penetrating the fuel tank.
Fuel System Issues
Evidence of a limited fuel spill was found at the accident site. The pilot had been operating with an intermittent fuel quantity measuring system and had been using a stick to dip the tanks to determine fuel quantity. The helicopter was not equipped with a low fuel quantity light. According to Bell Helicopters, the use of a dip stick to measure fuel quantity is not an approved procedure. The operator reported that no authorization from Transport Canada had been received to operate with an inoperative fuel gauge or to dip the tanks to determine fuel quantity. Refueling had been performed using an electric fuel pump powered by a truck-mounted battery.
Outcome
The helicopter sustained damage to its skid tube and fuel tank. No further details regarding occupants or post-accident conditions are provided in the source.