Incident Overview
During external load operations, the pilot landed the helicopter to reset a cone that had been blown over by wind. After landing, the pilot reduced engine power to idle and exited the aircraft. While walking away, the pilot heard a bang and observed that the main rotor blades had struck the tail boom area.
Pilot Actions
The pilot returned to the helicopter and pushed the cyclic forward, which was in the full aft position. The pilot estimated winds at 18 knots, gusting to 24 knots, and reported not properly setting the cyclic friction lock before departing the helicopter.
Examination Findings
Inspection of the helicopter revealed that the tail rotor driveshaft had separated from the airframe. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operations.
Flight Manual Guidance
According to the helicopter's flight manual, the rotor brake should be applied to stop the main rotor system prior to exiting the aircraft.