Departure and Initial Climb
The helicopter took off from a private golf course situated in mountainous terrain. The elevation at the departure point was at the upper limit of the helicopter's capability to hover in ground effect. After departure, a climbing turn was made to the northeast. While climbing at approximately 300 feet and 40 to 45 miles per hour, the tail pitched up, rotor RPM decayed, and the helicopter began losing altitude.
Loss of Control and Autorotation
The pilot reported that the helicopter rotated clockwise about its vertical axis. The wind was from the west at about three to six knots. An autorotation was initiated. During the descent, the helicopter turned 180 degrees to the west, overflying trees; the tail rotor contacted the trees. After turning back into the wind, directional control was regained.
Landing and Manufacturer Comment
The helicopter touched down hard on the golf course. Manufacturer's personnel stated that the circumstances were consistent with previous accidents that involved a loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE). An owner's manual for the aircraft was consulted, but no information was provided regarding the conditions conducive to LTE.