N62108

On July 24, 1997, about 1330 central daylight time, a Continental Copters MK5A, N62108, registered to Gulf Helicopter, Inc., crashed during takeoff at Sylacauga, Alabama, while on a Title 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The helicopter received substantial damage and the commercial-rated pilot received minor injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot stated he departed to the southwest from the back of a truck with a normal load of chemical, 80 gallons. Immediately after takeoff, rotor rpm began to decay. Realizing the aircraft would not clear the trees, he flared to slow the airspeed as the helicopter settled into the trees. The temperature was about 95 degrees and he had made about 20 similar takeoffs from the same spot on the day of the accident.

The pilot reported to an FAA inspector that the engine did not quit or lose power. Examination of the helicopter by an FAA inspector showed no evidence of precrash failure or malfunction of the engine, helicopter structure, or systems. The main drive clutch was removed and tested at an overhaul facility by FAA inspectors. The clutch operated normally.