NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that that during a low-level agricultural flight, his iPad was not secured on his lap, and it slid off onto the collective. He reported that while he was retrieving the iPad, he inadvertently applied forward cyclic, the helicopter impacted terrain, and sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and tail boom.

The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to secure the iPad during flight, resulting in an inadvertent cyclic input, and collision with terrain.