Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during a landing approach, a helicopter experienced a brown-out condition caused by the main rotor downwash, which reduced visibility. The pilot stated that he had landed at the site several times previously, but significant construction work had occurred since his last visit.
Sequence of Events
As the pilot descended to the intended landing zone, the main rotor downwash created brown-out visibility conditions. The helicopter floated past the intended landing spot, and the main rotor struck a tree. According to the pilot, pieces of the main rotor blades subsequently damaged the vertical stabilizer and horizontal stabilizer. The tail rotor was also damaged.
Damage Assessment
The main rotor blades struck a tree, resulting in fragmentation that impacted the vertical and horizontal stabilizers. The tail rotor sustained damage as well.
Pilot Statement
The pilot noted that although he had previously landed at the site, the recent construction work altered the landing area, contributing to the unexpected conditions.