Accident Details
A private pilot was conducting a flight with three passengers for hire along the Mississippi River to inspect for missing barges after Hurricane Katrina. During the flight, the pilot experienced a loss of tail rotor control. While at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level, the helicopter executed a sudden right turn and climbed about 100 feet. It then began spinning in a clockwise direction and descended. The helicopter continued to spin until it struck a barge and fell into the river, approximately 300 feet from the riverbank.
Occupants and Egress
After the helicopter sank, the pilot and all three passengers were able to exit the sinking aircraft and swim to shore without assistance. No injuries were specified in the report.
Pilot Information
Federal Aviation Administration records indicated that the pilot held a private pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single-engine land and helicopter. Multiple attempts to obtain a completed Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report from the pilot were unsuccessful.
Investigation Notes
As of January 23, 2006, the helicopter had not been located or recovered. No further details regarding the aircraft or its registration are available from the source.