Introduction
A private pilot experienced a ground collision during landing at a tower-controlled airport after her helicopter slid on ice and struck a parked, unoccupied helicopter. The incident occurred at the conclusion of a short cross-country personal flight conducted under Title 14, CFR Part 91.
Incident Details
According to the pilot, she made two passes over the designated helicopter parking area before landing. She observed that the surface appeared very icy and slick. Unable to identify any other suitable landing area in the immediate vicinity, she chose to land approximately 50 feet from another helicopter. Upon touchdown, the helicopter began to slide on the icy surface, skidding in a circular motion toward the parked helicopter. The helicopter collided with the unoccupied aircraft before the pilot could stop the main rotor blades.
Aftermath
The collision resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter's main rotor blades. No other injuries or damage were reported. The pilot was the sole occupant of the helicopter. The parked helicopter remained unoccupied throughout the event.