Accident Details
The accident occurred while a solo commercial certificated pilot was conducting a low pass over a beach under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The pilot was looking for an appropriate landing spot for the helicopter when the incident took place.
Pilot Report
In a written statement, the pilot reported that during the low pass over the landing area, a sudden gust of wind caused the helicopter to pitch up. Subsequently, the tail rotor struck an unknown object. The helicopter then yawed to the right, descended, and the skid struck the ground.
Aircraft Damage
According to the pilot, the helicopter came to rest upright. However, it sustained damage to the main rotor system, tail cone, and rotor mast, in addition to the tail rotor. The pilot reported no known mechanical problems with the helicopter prior to the accident.
Additional Information
No other details about the helicopter, operator, location, or date were provided. The pilot was the sole occupant at the time of the accident.