Incident Details
A Cessna 172RG and a Hughes 269 helicopter collided approximately 150 feet above the ground while on the final approach course for runway 9. The Cessna was on final approach for landing, while the helicopter was proceeding south-southeast across the final approach path to land at a hangar on the south side of the airport.
The helicopter pilot had just completed hovering practice on the north side of the airport, then circled north-northwest, west, south, and headed southeast toward the landing area. Based on the reported damage, the helicopter's main rotor contacted the left flap and horizontal stabilizer/elevator of the Cessna.
Pilot Actions
The Cessna pilot stated that he reported his position as he entered right base for runway 9 and again as he turned onto final at 500 feet above ground. The Hughes pilot did not report making any radio transmissions. Both pilots reported glimpsing the opposing aircraft just prior to the collision and taking evasive action, which was ineffectual.
Aftermath
Following the collision, the Cessna continued and was landed on the runway. The helicopter pilot executed an autorotation and landed near the collision site.