Accident to the Bell 206 registered F-BXPF on 03/05/2024 at Peyriac-de-Mer

While flying over the lake to return to the landing area, the pilot unintentionally initiated and controlled the continuous descent of the helicopter at an average vertical speed of 350 ft/min for approximately 35 s from a height of 60 m, while he believed he was in level flight at a height of approximately 20 m. The helicopter struck the water's surface. The pilot managed to release his harness and evacuate through the shattered canopy as the helicopter sank. He was picked up by a fisherman who was close to the accident site.