Accident Overview
On the first flight of the day, a helicopter departed from a remote helipad. During the initial climb, at approximately 150-200 feet above ground level and with 80-85% torque, the pilot heard popping noises from the engine. The helicopter yawed left, and the engine lost power, accompanied by a rapid decay of N1 and rotor rpm. The pilot executed an autorotation, landing in a swampy area adjacent to a tree line. The pilot and passengers exited the helicopter without injuries.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the main rotor blades had contacted and severed the tail boom upon touchdown. Inspection of the engine found evidence of foreign object ingestion. Remnants and the smell of an amphibian were present in the engine bleed manifold port and intake, and impact evidence was noted on the compressor front support.
Background
The helicopter had remained overnight at the remote helipad prior to the accident flight, which was the first of the day for that aircraft. The operator reported that there had been previous incidents involving ingestion of "green frogs," which are common in the area.