Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a tree stump during landing in mountainous terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during a personal flight in the helicopter, he made an approach to land in mountainous terrain. While landing, the tail rotor and vertical stabilizer struck tree stump and the helicopter touched down on the uneven surface and came to rest upright. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.