Incident Summary
A helicopter pilot reported losing control of the aircraft while conducting rice field pollination operations. The pilot stated that the loss of control occurred while flying the downwind leg of the flight path. The helicopter subsequently impacted the ground and rolled onto its right side.
Aircraft Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail boom as a result of the impact. No other damage was reported.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot did not elaborate on the cause of the loss of control.
Weather Information
An automated weather observation station located approximately 12 miles west of the accident site provided wind data. About 37 minutes before the accident, the wind was reported as from 360° at 19 knots, gusting 26 knots. About 23 minutes after the accident, the wind was reported as from 360° at 18 knots, gusting 26 knots. The pilot did not mention weather conditions as a factor.