Introduction
On the day of the incident, a student pilot and a certified flight instructor (CFI) were operating a Cessna 152, registration N48864, to practice landings on runway 9R. Simultaneously, a helicopter pilot (H/P) was flying a Bell 47G-2, registration N6728D, practicing landings in a designated helicopter area (Area-A) adjacent to runway 9R. The traffic pattern for Area-A was inside and below the pattern for runway 9R.
Sequence of Events
At 0816, the local controller (LC) cleared the helicopter for takeoff and advised the H/P of the Cessna performing touch-and-go landings on runway 9R. Approximately one minute later, the LC informed the Cessna pilots of the helicopter operating in Area-A. No further traffic advisories were issued to either aircraft.
The Cessna was on its fourth approach when the CFI simulated an emergency by reducing power to idle. At that time, the helicopter was on its second approach. As the Cessna continued on a base-to-final turn, it converged with the helicopter from the rear.
Collision
At approximately 0824, the two aircraft collided. The collision severed the Cessna's nose landing gear and damaged its propeller and right main landing gear. The helicopter entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed.
Aftermath
The CFI took control of the Cessna and landed safely on runway 9R.