Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain helicopter control after becoming spatially disoriented when the helicopter entered low-level haze/fog.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during an aerial application flight, he encountered some “low-level haze/fog” as he maneuvered the helicopter towards the load truck. After safely landing, he decided to add fuel and return to his operating base. Shortly after departure, the fog thickened so he decided to return to the load site. The pilot reported that he was headed in the direction of the load truck but became spatially disorientated as the haze/fog thickened. The helicopter subsequently impacted the ground coming to rest on its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system, fuselage, and tail boom. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.