Pilot Fatigue Leads to Helicopter Accident

Accident Sequence

A pilot departed on a cross-country helicopter flight around 0430. The flight was conducted at altitudes between 1,000 and 1,200 feet at a speed of 102 knots. Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes later, at about 0555, the pilot heard the sound of water hitting the helicopter. He subsequently lost awareness until he found himself in a still and quiet environment, realizing he had crashed. He released his restraint and used a cellular phone to call his girlfriend for assistance. A search was initiated, and the pilot was rescued around 1030. He was airlifted to a hospital for treatment.

Pilot's Condition

The pilot reported that he had lacked appetite and sleep during the three days preceding the accident. He stated that this made him fatigued. He awoke at 0400 on the day of the flight.

Cause

The pilot stated that there was no mechanical failure or malfunction of the helicopter. He reported that the cause of the crash was due to fatigue.