Accident Summary
A skid-equipped helicopter, used for agricultural aerial application, collided with a tank truck during takeoff from an elevated platform mounted on the truck. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and main rotor system.
Pilot Statements
The pilot reported that he had loaded the helicopter with liquid for the flight. He stated that no performance planning calculations were performed prior to the flight regarding weight and balance, density altitude, out-of-ground-effect capability, or in-ground-effect capability. Additionally, the operator noted that an FAA-approved weight and balance form was not provided to the pilot until after the accident.
During the takeoff from the elevated platform, the pilot increased collective, established a two-inch hover, and applied forward cyclic. The helicopter then "shook violently and started to descend" about a foot or two from the platform. The pilot turned the nose approximately 45 degrees to the left, and the main rotor blades impacted the tank truck upon which the platform was mounted.
The pilot stated that the temperature was hot, possibly in the lower 80s degrees Fahrenheit, with no wind. He also reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation prior to the flight.
Weather Information
The nearest weather station, located 7 miles east of the accident site, reported 100 percent humidity, a temperature of 73.4 degrees Fahrenheit, a dew point of 73.4 degrees Fahrenheit, no wind, and a density altitude of 1,698.7 feet at an airport elevation of 355 feet. The accident site elevation was 457 feet.
Aircraft Damage
The helicopter incurred substantial damage to the fuselage and main rotor system.
Operational Procedures
Interviews with the pilot and operator revealed that performance planning calculations were not performed for the flight. The FAA-approved weight and balance form was provided to the pilot only after the accident.