What happened
The flight was conducted in a fixed-float equipped helicopter with the intent of performing a hydraulics-off takeoff from the surface of the water. The certified flight instructor (CFI) directed the rated pilot to execute this specific maneuver. During the initial phase of the takeoff, the right float lifted off the water before the left side. This asymmetric lift caused the aircraft to enter a dynamic rollover condition, rolling to the left until it became inverted in the water.
The investigation
The circumstances surrounding the event indicate that the specific maneuver attempted is not standard procedure for this type of operation. Hydraulics-off takeoffs are generally not practiced or recommended when departing from water surfaces due to the inherent instability and control challenges involved during the transition from a floating state to flight.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the decision to perform a specialized takeoff technique that is inconsistent with standard safety practices for water operations. The dynamic rollover occurred as a direct result of the right float lifting prematurely, leading to the inversion of the aircraft.