Primary finding
Probable cause
The uncertificated pilot's failure to maintain pitch and directional control, which resulted in an impact with terrain and a rollover.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The uncertificated helicopter pilot who was familiar with the helicopter, which was parked at a farm, decided to relocate the helicopter to another location on the farm. Having no other means to move the helicopter, he decided to fly the helicopter to the new location. As he neared the new location in a hover, he became "scared" by the proximity of electrical wires, the helicopter pitched up, the tail rotor impacted the ground, and the helicopter rolled onto its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to its stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The uncertificated helicopter pilot who was familiar with the helicopter, which was parked at a farm, decided to relocate the helicopter to another location on the farm. Having no other means to move the helicopter, he decided to fly the helicopter to the new location. As he neared the new location in a hover, he became "scared" by the proximity of electrical wires, the helicopter pitched up, the tail rotor impacted the ground, and the helicopter rolled onto its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to its stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.