Primary finding
Probable cause
Loss of control on the ground due to aircraft control not being maintained by the pilot. Contributing factors were the gusting winds and the uneven ground.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The helicopter was substantially damaged following a loss of control while landing. The accident occurred during an off airport landing on uneven, soft terrain in gusty wind conditions. The pilot set the back of the skids down and was lowering the nose when the helicopter rocked "deeply" forward, then back and to the left. The helicopter then rolled over coming to rest on its left side. The pilot reported the local winds were at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.
Source record
Factual narrative
The helicopter was substantially damaged following a loss of control while landing. The accident occurred during an off airport landing on uneven, soft terrain in gusty wind conditions. The pilot set the back of the skids down and was lowering the nose when the helicopter rocked "deeply" forward, then back and to the left. The helicopter then rolled over coming to rest on its left side. The pilot reported the local winds were at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.