WPR21LA236

Factual narrative

The pilot reported that, during the approach to the landing area, he made visual contact with the airport manager who cleared him to land on the west end of the pull-off tarmac. The pilot noted evidence of wind from the blowing willows from south-west. He initiated a left downwind approach, and upon turning from base to final at 500 ft above ground level, the helicopter started to settle with power and the pilot experienced a nearly direct tailwind. Due to the approach speed and proximity to the ground, the pilot was unable to fly out, so he leveled the helicopter and committed to landing. The helicopter touched down hard, spun right about 120° and rolled left upside down. The helicopter was destroyed by impact forces and postaccident fire. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12

NTSB Findings

FAA avdata. C = Cause, F = Factor.

• — Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Aircraft control-Pilot
• — Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Descent rate-Attain/maintain not possible
• — Personnel issues-Action/decision-Info processing/decision-Decision making/judgment-Pilot