Accident Details
During an agricultural flight, the helicopter pilot executed a downwind turn to spray a field. While making a low-airspeed right turn, the pilot increased engine power, but the rotor RPM decreased. The pilot leveled the helicopter to clear powerline wires, yet the rotor RPM remained low. The helicopter descended, and the pilot landed in a corn field. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and the horizontal stabilizer.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Information
The nearest METAR, located 15 nautical miles south-southeast, reported calm winds around the time of the accident.