Forced/precautionary landing involving a Kawasaki Heavy Industries 47G3B-KH4, VH-JAJ, Kings Canyon (VEC), Northern Territory, on 13 August 1997

The pilot reported that the helicopter landed heavily in a carpark, after the engine lost power during takeoff. On lift-off, engine indications were normal with 28-29 inches boost while in the hover. As the helicopter accelerated, the pilot felt a deterioration in performance and observed that the boost had fallen to 15-18 inches. During the subsequent landing, the helicopter's main rotor blades struck a tree and both landing skids were bent. The helicopter remained upright. Post flight examination found that the turbo charger had failed.