Accident Details
A pilot conducting an agricultural operation landed the helicopter into the wind to reload fuel and agricultural chemicals. While the loader mixed the chemicals, the wind shifted to a tailwind condition. The pilot acknowledged that the rotor blades were dirty but forgot to clean them before departure.
Takeoff and Impact
During takeoff, the helicopter could not gain any lift and began to sink back toward the ground. Moments after takeoff, it impacted the ground with a slight nose-low attitude. The impact caused the skids to collapse and the main rotor blades to contact the tailboom.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.