Accident Narrative
The pilot of a helicopter stated that the purpose of the flight was to perform a mosquito abatement aerial application. While the helicopter was parked adjacent to a pond where the application was to occur, the ground crew installed a bucket and related dispersal equipment. They attached hydraulic lines and straps designed to be disconnected by the pilot in an emergency. The ground crew and pilot verified the emergency features and adjusted hydraulic pressure. The bucket, located about two feet in front of the helicopter, was filled, and the ground crew cleared the pilot for takeoff.
The pilot raised the collective control and focused on a mirror affixed to the left skid to assess the bucket's height. As the helicopter lifted off, it lurched forward, and the pilot applied aft cyclic. Despite these efforts, the helicopter continued moving forward uncontrollably and assumed a nose-down attitude. It collided with terrain and rolled onto its left side, substantially damaging the fuselage.
Post-Accident Observations
After egressing the helicopter, the lead crew member showed the pilot that the hydraulic line was tangled around the right skid. Other crew members reported that they observed the hose on the skid during takeoff but, due to their vantage point, were unable to signal the pilot.
Pilot Comments
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if he had raised the collective slower. He further noted that there were no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.