Primary finding
Probable cause
The non-helicopter rated pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in impact with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot/owner, who is not rated in helicopters, reported that he departed the airport and flew the helicopter for 4 miles before landing in a parking lot in the city. During the landing flare the tail rotor blades impacted the ground and the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor gear box and tail boom. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot/owner, who is not rated in helicopters, reported that he departed the airport and flew the helicopter for 4 miles before landing in a parking lot in the city. During the landing flare the tail rotor blades impacted the ground and the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor gear box and tail boom. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.