Transmission mounts?
The latest rumour is that whilst in a hover about ten feet agl a severe vibration and control problems were encountered as a result the PIC dropped the collective resulting in damage to the skids and tail etc.
It's believed that the vibration and control issues were a result of a failure of one or more transmission mounts. Perhaps the other mounts let go upon impact?
Anyone in Wollongong spoken to someone with an american accent & wearing a Bell cap in the last week checking out the 412? My source is reliable but this is still difficult to believe. It's one of those things would don't want to hear. Has someone out there got more definative information?
I'm not having a go at the owner of that helicopter, it can happen to anyone, just be careful doing your daily if you fly a classic 412.