What happened
During an air tour flight, the pilot encountered instrument meteorological conditions. Prior to the accident, the pilot received reports of poor weather along the intended flight path and elected to deviate to a different route to avoid the weather. While flying above a thin layer of scattered clouds, the weather changed rapidly, causing clouds to close in on the aircraft.
In an attempt to regain visual conditions beneath the cloud deck, the pilot descended through a hole in the clouds. However, the weather continued to worsen as fog and clouds surrounded and engulfed the helicopter. While attempting to climb and reverse course while in instrument conditions, the main rotor of the helicopter impacted trees. This impact caused severe vibrations, prompting the pilot to initiate an emergency landing.
During the touchdown, the right skid struck a boulder, causing the aircraft to roll onto its side. There were no injuries reported following the accident. A witness noted that while conditions had been sunny and clear just prior to the event, fog moved in rapidly, reducing surface visibility to 4 feet. The witness also noted that such rapid weather changes are common in the area.
The investigation
No mechanical malfunctions were reported regarding the aircraft following the accident.