Casualties unknown

Helicopter Rolls Over During Hover Practice (N90736)

Mesa, AZ, US

On April 10, 1982, a Robinson R-22 (registration N90736) operated by Superstition Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Mesa, AZ. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 11 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a training flight, a helicopter lifted to a hover, yawed right, then rolled over after the left skid struck the ground.

Overview

A helicopter incident occurred in a practice area during a training flight. The aircraft was being operated by an instructor and a student pilot.

Sequence of Events

After landing in the practice area, the instructor directed the student to lift the helicopter to a hover. The aircraft rose to approximately five feet above the ground. During the ascent, the helicopter yawed 45 degrees to the right. The instructor responded by applying left pedal and lowering the collective pitch control. Concurrently, the student applied left cyclic control. Before the instructor could take further corrective action, the helicopter's left skid contacted the ground, causing the aircraft to roll over.

Outcome

The helicopter rolled onto its side after the left skid struck the ground. The source does not specify injuries, damage, or the aircraft's registration, type, or operator.

Probable Cause

The investigation report does not state a probable cause.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02216. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.