Accident Summary
A helicopter operating under night vision goggles (NVG) struck a building and subsequently the ground during a hover taxi maneuver. The accident occurred as the pilot attempted to reposition the aircraft after a pedal turn to align with landing lines on the ramp.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that, while conducting a hover taxi under NVG, he executed a pedal turn to face west and align with painted landing lines on the ramp. He then looked under his goggles and observed that the right painted mark was positioned under the right skid. The pilot estimated the helicopter was approximately 6 feet above the ground at that time. After this visual check, he returned his gaze to the goggles to prepare for landing.
Subsequently, the tactical field officer on board advised the pilot that the helicopter needed to move forward. The pilot attempted to initiate forward movement but reported that "nothing happened." Immediately afterward, he felt a sudden jolt and heard the noise of the tail rotor striking an object. The helicopter then impacted a building and, subsequently, the ground.
Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage as a result of the impacts.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.