Accident Narrative
The pilot reported that he was orbiting at 50 knots approximately 100 feet above a mountain peak at 11,800 feet mean sea level (msl). As the helicopter flew out of the leeward side of the peak, it encountered a downdraft. The pilot maneuvered the helicopter toward a wide open valley that descended about 5,000 feet below. Despite applying full collective and descending into the valley, the downdraft pushed the helicopter into the face of the mountain. The helicopter impacted the mountain slope, caught fire, and tumbled.
Occupant Egress
The pilot and his two passengers egressed the burning helicopter with minor injuries. The pilot then hiked to the peak and used a cell phone to call for rescue.
Density Altitude Considerations
The calculated density altitude for the conditions at 11,800 feet msl, with an altimeter setting of 29.78 inHg and a temperature of 47 degrees Fahrenheit, was 13,918 feet. The published maximum operating density altitude for the R-44 II is 14,000 feet.
Mechanical Status
The pilot stated that the helicopter had no mechanical failures or malfunctions during the flight.