Accident Details
According to the helicopter pilot, the accident occurred during an agricultural flight. The pilot had landed the helicopter on a tender truck platform. A ground crewman connected a hose to fill the hopper but did not provide positive communication to the pilot regarding task completion. Consequently, due to crew miscommunication, the pilot initiated takeoff with the hose still attached to the helicopter.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff, the tail rotor struck the hose. The pilot subsequently lost tail rotor authority, causing the helicopter to enter an uncontrollable spin to the right. The pilot lowered the collective, and the helicopter descended, struck the ground, and then rolled over.
Damage and Mechanical Condition
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom, tail rotor system, main rotor system, and skids. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot's Recommendation
The pilot reported that the accident could have been prevented by implementing a documented operating procedure to ensure positive communication between the ground crew and pilot.