Event Description
The pilot was returning to land from a local flight when he observed another helicopter hovering on the ramp. He decided to alter his approach to avoid the other helicopter, intending to land southwest of the ramp. The pilot flew parallel to runways 27 left and right, leveled off at 50 feet, and began a right turn to approach the ramp from the west. During this maneuver, he noticed a kneeboard fall from the co-pilot's side of the helicopter and land near the cyclic control boot. The pilot attempted to straighten the helicopter but found the cyclic control felt "stiff" and could only be moved slightly to the left or aft. The helicopter continued to descend and landed hard.
Witness Observation
A helicopter pilot who witnessed the accident stated that the helicopter's approach was fast, steep, and conducted with a tailwind.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the helicopter and its associated hydraulic control system did not reveal any preimpact malfunctions. Additionally, attempts to restrict the cyclic control movement by positioning the kneeboard at various locations around the cyclic control could not be duplicated.
Weather Conditions
A weather observation taken at the airport about the time of the accident reported winds from 190 degrees at 12 knots. The pilot reported that at the time of the accident, the windsock was "limp."