What happened
During an approach for landing, a student pilot was operating a helicopter when the certified flight instructor observed the ground approaching rapidly. At that time, the manifold pressure indicated 25 inches. The flight instructor took control of the aircraft and increased the throttle; however, there was no apparent response from the engine. The instructor attempted to level the helicopter, but the aircraft collided with the ground while in a level attitude. Following the impact, the helicopter rolled over onto its left side.
The investigation
An examination of the crash site determined that the aircraft struck the ground with the left skid positioned low at a 45-degree angle relative to the flight path. The investigation found that the left skid collapsed and the cross tube support brackets were broken, while the right skid remained intact. There were no injuries reported in this incident.