Accident Overview
On July 8, 2019, at approximately 1112 central daylight time, a Continental Copters Tomcat MK6C (registration N41830) was substantially damaged during a maneuvering phase of an aerial application flight near Franklin, Kentucky. The commercial pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 137 rules for agricultural operations. Visual meteorological conditions were present, and no flight plan had been filed. The flight had departed from a field near Franklin at about 1110.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that after loading the helicopter with 50 gallons of chemical and 5 gallons of fuel, the aircraft departed from a rooftop helipad mounted on a truck. Winds were light and variable. As the helicopter turned, descended, and leveled off to begin spraying a field, the pilot noticed a decay in main rotor rpm. He responded by increasing throttle, lowering the collective, and applying aft cyclic in an attempt to restore rotor speed. However, the tailboom subsequently contacted the ground, causing the helicopter to roll inverted. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter.
Damage Examination
An inspection of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed damage to the main rotor blades, tail rotor, fuselage, and tailboom, consistent with a substantial damage event.
No probable cause was determined from the available information.