Student Pilot Loses Control During Hover Practice (N75068)

What happened

The student pilot was conducting a solo flight specifically focused on practicing lift-off maneuvers from a hover and subsequent landing back into a hover. During one of these practice approaches, the helicopter touched down on the surface. Immediately upon contact with the ground, the aircraft began to roll uncontrollably. The pilot attempted to maintain control but was unable to prevent the rollover.

The investigation

A thorough examination of the accident site and the aircraft revealed no evidence suggesting a mechanical malfunction or failure prior to the incident. Investigators noted physical evidence indicating that one of the helicopter skids had scraped against the sod surface during touchdown. This contact with the uneven ground is believed to have induced the dynamic roll-over.

Findings

The primary factor in this accident was the loss of control during the landing phase. The interaction between the helicopter's skid and the sod surface played a critical role in the rollover. No mechanical issues were found to contribute to the event.