Possible that the Pilot was ejected because the engine/gearbox froze
In another conversation with a fellow pilot, he suggested that instead of the controls being accidentally pushed while the pilot was unstrapped, the engine and drivetrain could have frozen. The resultant instant torque from stopping the main rotor mass could have been severe, tossing the unsecured pilot and luggage through the doors, whether they were latched or not.
One witness account said that the main rotor had folded up. This may be another indication that the main rotar shaft made an abrupt stop. More details from witnesses could help here. I noticed in the crash photo that both rotors were still placed as if they were attached on impact. However, one seemed to be missing the inner portion of the blade, with the tubular spar exposed.
Last edited by coptercop; 23rd Feb 2009 at 05:45.