Incident Summary
A pilot conducting external load long line hauling operations with a helicopter was returning with two empty nets. During the approach to a hilltop helipad, the pilot performed a normal approach rather than a long line approach. The 100-foot long line then snagged on a ridgeline, causing the helicopter to jerk in an uncontrollable turn to the right. The helicopter touched down right skid first and rolled over.
Findings
The pilot reported that he forgot the long line was still attached. No mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation were reported by the pilot.
Damage
The tail boom was substantially damaged.
Operator Actions
The operator submitted two safety recommendations to the National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge. First, the operator revised the normal operation checklist to include a new "CARGO HOOK – CHECK" in both the BEFORE TAKEOFF and DESCENT AND LANDING checklists. Second, the chief pilot issued a memorandum to all employees directing the use of an observer, when available, to observe takeoffs and landings and communicate any unsafe condition to the pilot via radio communication or hand signals.