Investigation number
199703388
Occurrence date
Location
Hoxton Park Aerodrome
State
New South Wales
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Loss of control
Occurrence class
Accident

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.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Robinson Helicopter Co
Model
R22 Beta
Registration
VH-AOP
Operation type
Flying Training
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Hoxton Park NSW
Destination
Hoxton Park NSW
Damage
Substantial