Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper pedal application during an approach to a hover.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was transitioning the helicopter into a 4 ft hover when he encountered a wind gust. The pilot stated that he overreacted with too much right pedal and the helicopter rotated right, the left skid impacted the ground, which resulted in a dynamic rollover and impact with terrain. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and tailboom. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.