Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a loss of engine power.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the final run for the aerial application flight, he noticed the engine spooling down. He attempted to land on a nearby road but collided with the terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter or engine that would have precluded normal operation and that the loss of engine power was due to fuel exhaustion.