Accident Sequence
According to a report filed by the flight instructor, the helicopter was holding short of runway 21L when the ground controller issued a clearance to "cross 21L." The instructor stated that she interpreted this clearance as permission to proceed directly to her destination on the airport. After she began a hover taxi in a direct route, the ground controller contacted her again and clarified the clearance: "cross 21L at C4, D4 and follow company traffic."
To avoid a runway incursion, the instructor turned the helicopter into a tailwind. She noted that, given the high density altitude and strong winds, the aircraft did not have sufficient power to maintain altitude. The helicopter settled toward the ground, resulting in one bounce on the sod. A second bounce caused the helicopter to roll onto its left side.
Pilot Report
The flight instructor reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The helicopter was equipped with skids, and the incident occurred during taxi operations in an airport environment.
Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail boom.