Accident Overview
A helicopter engaged in aerial spraying operations in a wooded area near Eutaw, Alabama, failed to return from a flight following a refueling stop. The helicopter had been conducting short-duration missions of 10 to 15 minutes. After refueling, the aircraft departed the staging area but did not return within 20 minutes, prompting an aerial and ground search. The downed helicopter was located approximately three hours after the search began.
Examination of the Accident Site
At the accident site, the helicopter was observed lying on its left side. Examination revealed that the main rotor blades had been broken off from the main rotor head, and the fuselage exhibited buckling. The pilot had not reported any mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter prior to the accident.
Post-Accident Engine Functional Check
During preparations for a functional check of the engine, fuel was poured into the main fuel tank. After adding approximately one gallon of jet fuel, an undetermined small amount of fuel leaked from the bottom of the tank. An external source of jet fuel was then connected to the engine fuel system. The engine was started and operated for five minutes at up to 65% power. Both oil and engine temperature instruments remained within normal operating ranges throughout the run. No mechanical anomalies were identified during the engine test.
Additional Information
The operator did not document fueling records. The accident investigation did not determine a specific cause for the crash.