Casualties unknown

1999-02-15: Robinson R-22 (N8362Q) — Classic Helicopter Corp. — Seattle, WA

Seattle, WA, US

On February 15, 1999, a Robinson R-22 (registration N8362Q) operated by Classic Helicopter Corp. was involved in an aviation accident near Seattle, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The dual student's improper touchdown while drifting during a practice autorotation. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor (CFI) inadequate remedial action. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a hovering autorotation training flight, a helicopter rolled onto its side after the left skid caught grass, with no mechanical failure found.

Incident Overview

A flight instructor reported that during a training session, a student pilot was practicing hovering autorotations for the first time in the training program. The instructor demonstrated approximately three maneuvers. During the fourth maneuver, both the instructor and the student were on the controls.

Sequence of Events

The instructor stated that he slowly rolled off the throttle. The helicopter began to drift to the left and descend. The left landing skid then caught the grass, causing the helicopter to roll to the left. Before the instructor could recover, the helicopter rolled over onto its side.

Investigation Findings

No evidence was found to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction. The accident occurred during a routine training exercise focused on autorotation techniques.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00241. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.