Incident Description
The operator of the helicopter reported that during takeoff, the pilot allowed the helicopter to drift aft while executing a pedal turn. As the pilot performed the pedal turn, the main rotor blades struck tree branches that outlined the confined area of the landing zone. The remainder of the flight was completed without incident.
Damage Assessment
Subsequent inspection by the operator's maintenance personnel revealed damage to two main rotor blades at the tips. Additionally, three fan-in-fin blades displayed bending, a crack was found in the vertical fin, a puncture was present in the horizontal stabilizer, and damage was noted to the anti-torque gear box. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the anti-torque gear box.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.