Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's inadequate compensation for gusty crosswinds during takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that he was landing his helicopter. He transitioned from the south to a hover at three feet above the ground. The pilot indicated that a sudden gust of wind "blew the helicopter forward and down." The left skid impacted the ground. The helicopter turned to the right and rolled over onto its left side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to its fuselage and tailcone. Local winds were 160 degrees at 15 knots gusting to 19 knots. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN11CA231