Incident Summary
A commercial helicopter pilot, who reported having accumulated 179 hours in the same make and model aircraft, lost control of the helicopter while attempting to take off from an offshore platform. The pilot lifted the helicopter into a three- to five-foot hover and performed a final check of the gauges. The torque was indicating 96 percent, and all other gauges were within "normal" parameters. The pilot then attempted to transition to forward flight.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, the helicopter "appeared to settle as it approached the deck edge and did not feel like it was in transitional lift." After crossing the edge of the deck, the helicopter entered into an uncommanded descent and right rotation. The pilot deployed the helicopter's floats prior to impacting the water. The pilot and passengers were able to egress the helicopter into a life raft unassisted.
Environmental and Weight Conditions
At the time of the mishap, the temperature was 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The helicopter was calculated to be 116 pounds below allowable maximum gross weight.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the helicopter revealed no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures.