Incident Details
A commercial pilot was conducting a test flight for the completion of an annual inspection of a helicopter. During the turn to final approach, the helicopter developed a severe vertical vibration. In response, the pilot decided to perform an immediate precautionary landing in an open field, short of the intended landing point.
Landing Sequence
During the landing approach, the pilot executed an exaggerated flare to avoid large bales of hay present in the field. As a consequence of this maneuver, the tail rotor struck the ground. Subsequently, the main rotor blades impacted the tailboom. The left landing gear skid folded before the helicopter came to a complete stop.
Outcome
The source of the severe vertical vibration was not identified. The helicopter sustained damage as described, with no further immediate issues reported.