On April 23, 2001, a Robinson R22 BETA (registration N806EH) was involved in an aviation accident near Fortuna, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student's improper procedure during a practice emergency that exceeded the instructor's reaction capability. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot and instructor were practicing hover autorotations. On the fourth attempt, with only the student on controls, a hard landing occurred and the helicopter rolled onto its side.
Incident Overview
A flight instructor and a student pilot were conducting hover autorotation practice flights. The first three maneuvers were performed with both individuals holding the flight controls simultaneously. The fourth scheduled maneuver was intended to be executed with only the student pilot manipulating the controls.
Sequence of Events
According to the flight instructor, he reduced the throttle to initiate the practice hover autorotation. In response, the student pilot lowered the collective control abruptly. The instructor stated that the rapid collective movement prevented him from averting a hard landing. Upon touchdown, the helicopter rolled onto its side.
Aftermath
The helicopter came to rest on its side following the hard landing. The incident concluded with the aircraft in that attitude.