Accident Overview
A helicopter crashed into a cotton field after experiencing a tail rotor failure during takeoff from a landing dolly. The pilot reported that shortly after beginning the takeoff, directional control was lost and the helicopter began to spin to the right. Recognizing the tail rotor failure, the pilot noted that the aircraft was positioned half over the dolly and heading toward a Jet Ranger helicopter and a fuel system.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that instead of chopping the throttle, he pulled back on the controls. Subsequently, the helicopter turned toward a hangar. The aircraft then crashed in a cotton field, away from buildings and equipment.
Post-Crash Events
Following the crash, the helicopter began to burn. Occupants inside the cockpit were assisted out by other personnel. The aircraft sustained fire damage.