Loss of control involving a Robinson R22 Beta, VH-AOP, Hoxton Park Aerodrome, New South Wales, on 14 October 1997

The student helicopter pilot was conducting his second solo flight at Hoxton Park. The weather was fine, with almost no wind. Prior to commencing the solo phase, the student had completed a satisfactory dual circuit check.

As the instructor walked away from the helicopter, he heard a "thump'. As he turned around, he saw the helicopter had rolled onto its side, causing substantial damage to the rotor blades. The accident was consistent with 'dynamic rollover'. The student was not injured and was able to exit the helicopter.

As the student had commenced to lift off the helicopter had rapidly rolled to the right. Although he had expected there would be some rolling tendency, the rate of roll was greater than the student had anticipated, and he had been unable to prevent the rollover.