History of Flight
On July 12, 2011, at approximately 0905 Pacific daylight time, a Hughes 269C helicopter, registration N3623Z, collided with trees near Wenatchee, Washington. Applebee Aviation, Inc. was operating the helicopter under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 for the purpose of drying cherry trees. The local flight had departed Wenatchee about 0845. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that he was flying at low altitude and slow airspeed over cherry trees to dry them when the engine experienced a loss of power. Due to the low altitude, the helicopter settled into the trees. After the accident, the pilot reported that the engine was still operating and he had to shut it down.
Postaccident Examination
During the postaccident examination of the engine and airframe, no evidence of a mechanical malfunction or failure was found that would have precluded normal operation with the engine or flight controls of the helicopter.
Additional Information
The FAA Rotorcraft Flying Handbook describes vortex ring state, also known as settling with power, as an aerodynamic condition where a helicopter may be in a vertical descent with up to maximum power applied, and little or no cyclic authority. The helicopter keeps settling even though full engine power is applied. This condition was referenced in the accident documentation.