Summary
On 23 December 2011, a Robinson Helicopter Company R22 Beta, registered VH-LNC departed Caloundra aerodrome on a Trial Instructional Flight (TIF). On board the helicopter were an instructor and student.
Whilst attempting to hover the helicopter the student made a significant and unexpected control input. Before the instructor could take control, the left skid contacted the ground, and the helicopter rolled over and sustained serious damage. The instructor and student were uninjured.
Robinson Helicopter Company has identified inexperienced individuals manipulating the controls and dynamic rollover as a significant factor in helicopter accidents. In response to this accident the helicopter operator has introduced a new policy in regard to TIFs and students manipulating the flight controls below 500 ft above ground level.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2012-001 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 22/12/2011 |
| Location | Caloundra Airport |
| State | Queensland |
| Report release date | 24/05/2012 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Loss of control |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R22 |
| Registration | VH-LNC |
| Serial number | 4483 |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Flying Training |
| Departure point | Caloundra, Qld |
| Destination | Caloundra, Qld |
| Damage | Substantial |