Incident Overview
A local air traffic controller had sequenced an S76 helicopter as number two for landing behind a PA-28 airplane. The PA-28 had been cleared for a touch-and-go landing. The helicopter pilot acknowledged the clearance, stated that he had the PA-28 in sight, and confirmed his position as number two.
Sequence of Events
The controller then cleared the PA-28 for a touch-and-go. According to witnesses, the S76 helicopter passed the PA-28 on short final. The helicopter subsequently made a low approach, slowing to a hover past the departure end of the runway.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported that the PA-28 pilot attempted to avoid the helicopter. During this maneuver, the PA-28 was caught in the helicopter's rotor wash.
Controller Response
The local controller observed the events and instructed both the helicopter and the PA-28 to continue their approaches.