Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that, during the off-airport landing, he believed he was landing on packed snow. He added that, during touchdown, the helicopter began to tip to the right, and he attempted to recover to no avail. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windshield and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that, during the off-airport landing, he believed he was landing on packed snow. He added that, during touchdown the helicopter began to tip to the right and he attempted to recover to no avail. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windshield and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.