Incident Overview
The pilot conducted an approach to a high hover due to the rough and uneven terrain. While hovering the helicopter to a level area at 40 feet above ground level (AGL), the helicopter began to yaw to the right. The pilot reported that he hover taxied through his own "rotor wash," leading to a "loss of tail rotor effectiveness."
Maneuver and Control Inputs
In response to the yaw, the pilot increased collective pitch in an attempt to take off. The helicopter subsequently made "two quick revolutions." The pilot decided to land the helicopter rather than continue with the takeoff, citing power lines and rising terrain as reasons.
Autorotation and Touchdown
The pilot initiated an autorotation. The helicopter touched down on soft ground while still rotating. The left landing skid collapsed upon touchdown. Subsequently, the tail rotor and main rotor blades struck the ground.
Final Position
The helicopter came to rest leaning toward its left side.