Accident Overview
A pilot was providing helicopter rides to airshow spectators. Operations began in the morning and ceased around noon because the airspace near the airport was being closed for airshow performers. After the show, the pilot resumed giving rides and had completed between four and six flights prior to the accident flight. During those previous rides, the pilot reported no problems with the helicopter.
Accident Sequence
On the accident flight, the pilot brought the helicopter to a hover into the wind and initiated a takeoff. The helicopter began to climb. However, at approximately 10 feet above ground level and before translational lift was achieved, the wind shifted. The helicopter then started to settle. The throttle was fully open, and the rotor rpm remained within the normal range. The pilot considered that increasing collective pitch would cause the rotor rpm to decay.
As the helicopter continued to descend, the left skid went under a rope barricade. The helicopter decelerated and yawed to the left. Subsequently, it suddenly yawed to the right, which the pilot identified as a tailrotor malfunction. The pilot then cut the throttle and initiated a hovering autorotation.
Impact and Damage
The helicopter touched down. Upon landing, the right skid collapsed, and the helicopter rolled onto its right side. The extent of damage to the helicopter is not specified in the report.
Pilot Actions
After recognizing the tailrotor malfunction and the aircraft's unexpected yaw, the pilot reduced throttle and performed a hovering autorotation in an attempt to control the descent. The pilot's actions are described as reported; no further assessment or causal factors are provided.
Conclusion
This article is based solely on the official investigation source. No additional analysis or commentary has been included.