NTSB Factual Report

On July 9, 2001, at 1311 eastern daylight time, a Hughes TH-55 helicopter, N7053X, registered to Liberty County Commissioners, collided into a marsh following a loss of engine power while spraying insecticide in Midway, Georgia. The helicopter was operated under the provisions of Public Use and visual flight rules. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the local flight. The commercial pilot and pilot-rated passenger were not injured, and the helicopter sustained substantial damage. The flight departed Liberty County Airport in Hinesville, Georgia, at 1230.

According to the pilot, while spraying for mosquitoes 300 feet above the ground, the engine lost power. Attempts to restore power were not successful, and the pilot initiated an emergency descent and autorotative flare. At touchdown, the helicopter leaned to the right in a marshy area and rolled onto its side. The main rotor blades struck the ground. The pilot stated the helicopter had been refueled prior to the flight.

Examination of the wreckage revealed the airframe and main rotor blades were bent. The helicopter sustained saltwater submersion damage prior to the recovery effort. The engine displayed saltwater damage, and saltwater ran from the cylinders when the spark plugs were removed. Attempts to run the engine produced about 10 seconds of operation. There was no evidence of mechanical malfunction.

NTSB Probable Cause

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factoe was the lack of suitable terrain upon which an emergency landing could be made, which resulted in a rollover upon touchdown in a marshy area.