Accident Details
The pilot of an agricultural helicopter reported that he had just completed a prior application flight and had the chemical tank loaded with cleaning solution. After increasing engine power for takeoff, he noticed an immediate decrease in both engine and rotor speed. He selected a nearby location for a landing.
Landing and Impact
When about 10 feet above ground level, the pilot flared to reduce forward speed. The helicopter touched down on the rear portion of the landing skids, causing the aircraft to pitch forward. The pilot applied aft cyclic control to prevent a nose-over. He then heard a bang and observed debris coming from the helicopter. He shut down the engine and secured the aircraft.
Postaccident Examination
Examination revealed that the main rotor had struck the tailboom, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot reported no failures or malfunctions of the helicopter prior to the accident. However, the chemical tank was found to contain approximately 90 gallons of cleaning solution, instead of the intended 70 gallons. The pilot noted that the aircraft may have been on a slight incline during loading, causing the right side tank to fill more than the left. As a result, he was unaware of the overload condition. He added that closer monitoring of the helicopter and chemical truck incline, as well as the final amount of solution loaded, might have prevented the accident.