Bell 206B N205PA accident near Filer, Idaho

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper anti-torque pedal inputs during takeoff, which resulted in a loss of helicopter control during takeoff and subsequent dynamic rollover.

NTSB analysis

The pilot initially reported that while he was taking off, the tail dropped and hit the ground. After a postaccident review of a security video that captured the accident, the pilot along with his flight instructor concluded that he input excessive left anti-torque pedal as he increased collective. A National Transportation Safety Board review of the same security video showed the helicopter as it rotated counterclockwise about its vertical axis. The fuselage pivoted about the right skid and the helicopter exceeded its critical roll angle, which resulted in dynamic rollover. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and tailboom.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR23LA214 for the full record.