Helicopter Strikes Refueling Truck During Landing Attempt, Rolls Over (N116HA)

Incident Overview

A helicopter was involved in an accident while attempting to land on the loading pool of a truck being used for refueling purposes. The aircraft collided with the truck during the landing attempt.

Pilot Account

The pilot of the helicopter reported that when the aircraft was approximately 6 inches from touchdown, he felt something unusual. Noticing that the refueling man was standing on the platform near the helicopter, the pilot decided to abort the landing on the truck and instead land on the ground. During the maneuver to redirect the aircraft, the tail boom struck the truck bed. This impact caused the pilot to lose control of the helicopter, and the aircraft subsequently rolled over onto its right side.

Outcome

There was no fire following the accident. Only one minor injury was reported. The aircraft sustained damage from the rollover and the collision with the truck.