Accident Sequence
The helicopter sustained substantial damage when it impacted terrain during takeoff. According to the pilot's account, the helicopter began "sinking toward the ground" shortly after lift-off, and the pilot reported "over controlling the cyclic." The helicopter's skids then contacted tall grass, causing the aircraft to tip "very far forward." The pilot attempted to level the helicopter using the cyclic, but the tail "fell rapidly," and the helicopter subsequently struck the ground and rolled over onto its right side.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that the helicopter was originally to be loaded with one passenger in the left seat and a 167 lb part behind the pilot. After the part was loaded, the pilot was informed that the passenger would not be riding in the helicopter. Due to a "time deadline," the pilot decided to operate the helicopter from the left seat instead of the right in order to "have a good lateral C.G." In his accident report, the pilot noted that the accident could have been prevented had he taken the time to get help to move the load to the co-pilot's side, as that would have resolved the lateral center of gravity issue and allowed him to fly from his normal position.
Post-Accident Observations
The helicopter came to rest on its right side after the rollover. No further details regarding the extent of damage were provided. The pilot did not report any injuries.