Takeoff and Ascent
At the start of the flight, the helicopter lifted off from a parking ramp. Immediately after becoming airborne, it began spinning as it climbed to an altitude of approximately 200 feet.
Descent and Impact
According to multiple witnesses, at the peak of the climb, the rate of rotation slowed and the helicopter started a rapid descent. Observers noted pitch angle differences in the main rotor blades, along with a decrease in main rotor rotation. The helicopter's pitch angle—nose-up and nose-down movements—was described as erratic. Just before impact, the helicopter stabilized and was no longer rotating when it struck the ramp, located a few hundred yards from the takeoff point. Upon impact, the helicopter became engulfed in flames.
Witness Observations
Witnesses provided differing accounts of the direction of the spin. Some reported that the helicopter was spinning to the left, while others reported that it was spinning to the right.