Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance with the ground while hovering, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the helicopter was practicing hovering and maneuvering just above the surface of the ground, around a cone. The pilot stated that because he was focused on the cone and not the helicopter’s altitude, the rear portion of the right skid contacted the ground resulting in dynamic rollover. The helicopter’s tailboom was substantially damaged during the accident. The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.