Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s abrupt maneuver to avoid electrical wires during the approach, which resulted in a hard landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that, during approach to land at a trading post, he circled the landing area multiple times to search for obstructions. He further reported that, while on final about 20 to 25 ft above the ground, he noticed multiple electrical wires in front of the helicopter. He lowered the collective to avoid the wires, and the helicopter landed hard. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that during approach to land at a trading post, he circled the landing area multiple times to search for obstructions. He further reported that while on final at about 20-25 feet above the ground he noticed multiple electrical wires in front of the helicopter. He lowered the collective to avoid the wires and the helicopter landed hard. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.