Introduction
A company test flight aimed to measure collective stick forces with the collective bias disabled. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, conducted the flight.
Flight Details
The pilot lifted the helicopter into a hover and then hovered free of obstacles. He reported that the collective controls were heavy, as anticipated, but the helicopter remained controllable.
Accident Sequence
While attempting to position a force gauge between his hand and the collective grip, the pilot lost control of the helicopter. The helicopter subsequently landed hard onto the ramp. The tail rotor blades struck the ramp, and the helicopter came to rest upright.
Postaccident Findings
Examination of the helicopter after the accident revealed bent tail rotor blades and a sheared tail rotor drive shaft.
Pilot's Comments
The pilot stated that he should have taken an observer or other personnel on the flight to assist while he focused on flying the helicopter.