Accident Overview
A sightseeing observation helicopter was substantially damaged during a landing at a county fairground parking lot. The accident occurred when the main rotor contacted the tail rotor drive shaft, causing the latter to separate from the helicopter. The separated tail rotor drive shaft then struck the rear window of a parked vehicle. Three passengers reported minor injuries, while the pilot stated that he was uninjured.
Pilot Statement
The pilot described the approach as a stabilized steep descent to the landing area. He noted that upon detecting ground contact with the helicopter skids, he lowered the collective, at which point the helicopter dropped and lunged forward. The landing site was a nearly level area covered with 2-3 inch tall grass.
Environmental Conditions
The wind at the time of the accident was from 170 degrees at 7 knots.
Examination Findings
An on-scene examination of the helicopter revealed no pre-impact anomalies. The helicopter's flight manual specified that the cabin interior featured a full, three-place, side-by-side seating arrangement. The helicopter's center of gravity range was 92.0 to 100 inches, while the operator's calculated center of gravity was 91.74 inches.
Damage Assessment
The helicopter sustained substantial damage from the main rotor impact with the tail rotor drive shaft. The tail rotor drive shaft separated from the aircraft and damaged a parked vehicle's rear window.