Helicopter Forced Landing After Object Strikes Windshield

Incident Overview

A helicopter was flying west at an altitude of 250 feet above ground level when the pilot heard a loud "bang" and observed a black object passing the left side of the aircraft. The object struck the passenger-side windshield. The pilot initiated a forced landing onto a nearby highway.

Landing and Damage

During the forced landing, both landing skids separated from the helicopter. The aircraft slid to a stop, resulting in buckling and wrinkling of the lower fuselage in several locations.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.