Incident Overview
A Bell 222 helicopter, registered as N222LF and operated by C J Systems Aviation Group, incurred substantial damage during an engine start at Casper Medical Center in Casper, Wyoming. The occurrence involved a positioning flight conducted under Title 14 CFR Part 91. The commercial pilot on board reported no injuries.
Sequence of Events
While initiating the engine start procedure, a sudden wind gust caused the main rotor blade to contact the left vertical stabilizer fin and the tail boom. This impact resulted in significant structural damage to the tail section. The aircraft had not yet become airborne.
Weather Conditions
Visual meteorological conditions were present at the time. Wind data from Natrona County Airport, situated 6 miles west of the medical center, indicated a westerly wind at 30 knots.
Aircraft Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage, specifically to the left vertical stabilizer and tail boom. No details were provided regarding damage to other components.
Operator and Flight Details
C J Systems Aviation Group operated the helicopter. The flight was classified as a positioning flight under Part 91 regulations. The pilot, who held a commercial certificate, was the sole occupant.
Probable Cause
The event was attributed to a wind gust that forced the main rotor blade into the left vertical stabilizer fin and tail boom.