Bell 206 N100CK accident near Hill City, South Dakota

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons, which resulted in a hard landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot descended the helicopter to land on a field in a bowl-shaped area with prevailing high winds. The pilot reported that the engine stopped producing power during the approach when the helicopter was too low to prevent a hard landing. The helicopter descended, spun, and landed hard, resulting in substantial damage. Examination of the airframe and test run of the engine did not reveal any anomalies which would have precluded normal operation of the helicopter. Testing of the engine could not replicate a loss of engine power.

The helicopter was landing at high altitude, with strong winds. It could not be determined if these factors adversely impacted the helicopter’s power available during the landing leading to conditions consistent with a loss of engine performance.

The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined because an examination and engine runs did not reveal any anomalies.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN19LA318 for the full record.