Incident Overview
During cruise flight, a helicopter pilot observed a reduction in the N2 needle, which was near 90, while the rotor needle remained at 100 percent. The pilot decided to perform a precautionary landing in a clear area as quickly as possible. The landing site was too close to a 10-foot wide irrigation ditch.
Landing and Subsequent Events
The pilot executed a soft landing but did not realize the helicopter's proximity to the ditch. After the helicopter had been stationary for a while, the sand beneath the rear section collapsed under the helicopter's rear center of gravity. As a result, the nose of the helicopter began to rise slowly, and the helicopter started to slide backwards. The tail of the helicopter struck the opposite side of the irrigation ditch, causing the helicopter to pivot to the right and come to rest in the ditch in approximately 15 inches of water.
Postcrash Examination
An FAA inspector conducted postcrash examinations of the helicopter with assistance from representatives of Bell Helicopter Company and Rolls-Royce Engines. No anomalies were noted with the helicopter or any of its systems.