Event Details
A pilot conducted preflight checks of a helicopter and found everything normal. He started the helicopter and observed normal operation. He lifted to a hover, taxied to the airport fuel pumps, reduced engine rpm to 1,800, and applied friction to the cyclic and collective controls.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that his passenger was seated on the left side. Before exiting, he asked the passenger not to touch the controls. He then proceeded to the fuel credit card system. He heard a noise, looked behind him, and saw the helicopter rolling over on its side. The helicopter hit the ground, and the engine stopped. The pilot asked the passenger to switch off the master switch and then helped him out of the helicopter. The pilot stated that he would not "hot refuel" on his own in the future.
Airport Policy
The airport manager reported that the pilot had been told many times that hot refueling was prohibited at this airport. The airport operations manual, section 4.02 Fueling Operations (a.1), states: "No aircraft shall be fueled or de-fueled while one or more of its engines are running or the aircraft is being warmed by external heat."