Accident Summary
On August 26, 2013, at 1525 mountain daylight time, a Robinson Helicopter Company model R44 II helicopter, registration N744KA, was substantially damaged while maneuvering near Clayton, New Mexico. The commercial pilot was not injured, and the three passengers sustained minor injuries. The helicopter was operated by King Ag Leasing under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The flight departed Clayton Municipal Airpark (KCAO) at 1450 for a personal aerial photography flight. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the purpose of the flight was to conduct aerial photography of a nearby location where the passengers had recently hunted. Because of concerns about density altitude at the departure airport, the pilot initially loaded only two passengers, completed a takeoff and landing, and then boarded a third passenger. After an uneventful takeoff, the flight proceeded north of the airport toward the area to be photographed.
About 25 to 30 minutes into the flight, while in a left turn from an easterly heading at about 100 feet above ground level, the helicopter began to settle (descend under power). The pilot increased collective control, but the helicopter continued descending as it approached two sets of power lines. With full engine power, the helicopter cleared both sets of power lines; however, the low rotor speed warning horn sounded as it crossed the second set. The pilot briefly reduced collective to regain rotor speed, then increased it again as the helicopter neared the ground. The helicopter impacted terrain in a manner similar to a hard landing, bounced, and rolled onto its left side. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures.
The pilot indicated that a southerly wind gust likely occurred during the left turn, reducing lift from the main rotor enough to cause descent despite full power and collective control. The pilot estimated the helicopter's weight at the time of the accident was about 2,391 pounds; the maximum gross weight was 2,400 pounds.
Weather Information
The nearest weather reporting station, at Clayton Municipal Airpark about 12 miles south of the accident site, reported at 1555: wind from 160 degrees at 17 knots gusting to 32 knots; visibility 10 miles; broken ceiling at 8,000 feet; temperature 31°C; dew point 11°C; altimeter 30.22 inches of mercury. A peak wind from 170 degrees at 32 knots was recorded at 1553. The station elevation was 4,964 feet, with a calculated density altitude of 7,721 feet.