Primary finding
Probable cause
The failure of the helicopter's centrifugal clutch during hover which led to the pilot's inability to maintain control of the craft and its subsequent impact with the ground.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was air taxiing his homebuilt helicopter when the centrifugal clutch failed and the helicopter abruptly descended into the ground. The helicopter struck its right skid and then rolled onto its side.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that he was air taxiing his homebuilt helicopter when the centrifugal clutch failed and the helicopter abruptly descended into the ground. The helicopter struck its right skid and then rolled onto its side.