Accident Details
A helicopter departed for a planned 20-minute tour with a gross weight of approximately 1,240 pounds. During the flight, the pilot decided to land in an area of flat terrain. As the pilot slowed the helicopter during the landing sequence, it began to descend. The descent continued, and the helicopter landed hard, subsequently rolling over. The pilot and passenger egressed from the helicopter without further incident.
Pilot Statements
After exiting, the pilot noted that the surface wind was from the west, which he considered consistent with a tailwind. The pilot stated that the combination of tailwind conditions and high altitude created an undesirable landing environment. He further indicated that he believed the helicopter's descent rate was too high for the prevailing conditions. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter.
Post-Accident Observations
Following the accident, a California Highway Patrol helicopter unit landed at the site to check on the occupants. An officer recorded the elevation at the accident site as 8,359 feet and the outside air temperature as 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Based on these readings, the density altitude was computed to be approximately 11,000 feet.