Accident Details
On July 8, 2020, at approximately 0945 central daylight time, a Robinson R-22 helicopter, registration N7186K, was substantially damaged during an accident near Venice, Louisiana. The helicopter was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 aerial observation flight. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured.
Sequence of Events
The pilot was conducting an aerial survey at an altitude of about 30 feet above ground level when the engine experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot performed an autorotation to a swampy area. During the landing, the left skid sank into the soft ground, causing the helicopter to settle to the left. The main rotor blades subsequently struck the ground, resulting in damage. One main rotor blade was bent, and the main rotor pitch links were damaged.
Post-Accident Examination
After recovery, a mechanic conducted an engine run with the engine still installed in the helicopter. The attempt used the helicopter's battery and remaining fuel. The battery power was insufficient to start the engine, so it was replaced. The engine then started and operated at idle power for several minutes before the mechanic partially advanced the throttle. Full throttle could not be applied due to the condition of the wreckage. Once the engine power stabilized at the advanced setting, the mechanic cycled the magneto switch from the "Both" position to the "Left" and "Right" positions. The mechanic reported a decrease in rpm each time the switch was cycled to either position, with the rpm stabilizing. No anomalies were observed during the engine run.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions, as reported at the nearest reporting facility, were not conducive to the development of carburetor icing.