NTSB Factual Report

The owner of the helicopter, who did not hold a pilot certificate, reported that he followed the manufacture checklist and started the helicopter as he awaited the arrival of his pilot. He further reported that as the main rotor reached "idle speed" the helicopter spun to the right and rolled over, which resulted in substantial damage to the main rotor drive shaft and tail boom. The owner's pilot did not witness the accident and did not authorize the owner's actions.

The owner did not report any mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The non-pilot owner's decision to start the helicopter while awaiting the pilot's arrival, which resulted in a loss of yaw control and a rollover.