Accident Overview
A helicopter pilot and three passengers were circling over rural terrain at an altitude of 150 feet above ground level. The helicopter was approximately 219 pounds overweight for the flight conditions. During the maneuver, the pilot slowed to 10 knots with a tailwind.
Sequence of Events
As the helicopter slowed, the main rotor rpm began to decrease, and a low-rotor aural warning sounded. In response, the pilot lowered the collective in an attempt to maintain rotor rpm. However, there was insufficient altitude to recover. The helicopter hit the ground tail rotor first, then the body of the helicopter landed hard and skidded forward, crushing the left skid. During impact, the main rotors flexed downward and severed the tailboom.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical deficiencies. He stated that the accident would likely not have happened if he had turned into a headwind.