Incident Summary
The pilot of a helicopter reported that while performing an aerial application over a celery crop, the landing skids were positioned approximately 24 inches above the crop tops. During straight and level flight, the skids made contact with the crop, causing the helicopter to pitch forward. Subsequently, the front portion of the skids dug into the terrain, and the helicopter tumbled before coming to rest on its side.
Aircraft Damage
Post-accident examination revealed substantial damage to the fuselage, and the tail boom was separated from the aircraft. Despite the extent of the damage, no mechanical anomalies were identified with the engine or flight control system.
Operational Context
The flight was conducted as an aerial application mission. The pilot reported that the helicopter was in straight and level flight at the time of the incident. The skids' contact with the crop initiated a chain of events leading to the helicopter's rollover.