Accident Overview
A helicopter experienced a left main landing gear collapse while the pilot was executing a normal landing from a hover at a private helipad. Following the collapse, the main rotor blades and tail rotor blades made contact with the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the tailboom and fuselage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that, immediately before the accident, the three green landing gear cockpit lights were illuminated, indicating that the landing gear was down and locked. Additionally, the pilot stated hearing a 'snap' noise emanating from the tailboom just prior to the incident.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage did not reveal any evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction, deficiency, or structural failure. The left main landing gear was found to have failed in overload.
Weather Conditions
The wind at the time was reported as 350 degrees at 17 knots, with gusts up to 24 knots.
Conclusion
The investigation determined that the left main landing gear collapsed during landing, leading to subsequent rotor blade strikes and structural damage. No mechanical or structural anomalies were identified prior to the event.