What happened
On December 20, 2011, a Bell 206BIII helicopter, registration TG-MYA, was conducting a flight toward the Department of Zacapa when the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of engine power. The pilot attempted to execute an emergency autorotation procedure over the area of Aldea el Soyate, in the municipality of San Antonio La Paz, El Progreso. During the final phase of the emergency descent, the aircraft encountered potential crosswinds and a loss of control, causing the fuselage to tilt onto its right side. The main rotor blade subsequently struck the ground, resulting in significant damage to the airframe, engine, and rotor components.
The investigation
The DGAC/UIA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, which showed that the helicopter was airworthy and up to date with all required inspections. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting that the commander held a valid license and medical certificate, with extensive experience in various helicopter models. Meteorological data indicated that weather conditions at the time were suitable for visual flight rules (VFR).
Investigators analyzed the engine components and found no prior reports of system failures in the aircraft logs. The investigation also assessed the landing site, noting that the terrain was a semi-muddy pasture with no significant obstacles that would have caused the initial impact of the fuselage.