Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to see and avoid the light pole, which resulted in a collision with the light pole and subsequent ground impact.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot, prior to departure, while in a 10 ft hover, he maneuvered away from a parked vehicle when the helicopter struck a light pole to the aft and right side of the helicopter. Subsequently, the helicopter descended and impacted the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to the tailboom and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.