Because they are top-heavy, ditched helicopters usually flip upside-down after hitting the water. The occupants will be subjected to violent motions and a rush of incoming water, which causes unsecured gear to wash through the cabin and can knock occupants unconscious. Jet fuel and hydraulic fluid may seep into the cabin and can cause blindness to open eyes and lung damage if inhaled.
In situations where helicopters crash into water, the occupants often experience intense physical forces due to the helicopter's unstable design. The impact can cause violent movements, flooding the cabin with water, which may lead to loss of consciousness and other injuries. Additionally, the presence of fuel and hydraulic fluids in the cabin increases the risk of eye damage and respiratory problems.