Incident Details
A pilot reported that while entering a normal left-hand pattern for landing at a dirt airstrip, an Army helicopter suddenly appeared from below and cut him off. To avoid a collision, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft and subsequently entered a wide right base to the airstrip.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that he did not have an opportunity to check the wind sock while in the pattern. After touchdown, a strong gust of wind pushed the aircraft off the right side of the runway, and it collided with several large rocks.
Post-Landing Observations
Following the landing, the pilot observed that the wind sock stood straight out, indicating a 90-degree crosswind. He estimated the wind speed to be 18 knots with gusts to 25 knots.