Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the air taxi with shifting winds.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
While air-taxiing the helicopter away from the runway, the helicopter encountered an unexpected gust of winds while passing near a hanger. The private pilot lost control as the helicopter, and was unable to regain control before the helicopter's tail rotor impacted the ground. The helicopter subsequently landed hard and remained in the upright position. Neither the pilot or passenger were injured. An on-scene examination of the helicopter by Federal Aviation Administration inspectors failed to reveal any pre-impact anomalies. On the NTSB Form 6120.1 submitted by the private pilot, there were no known mechanical malfunctions or failures.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN10CA082