Casualties unknown

2003-02-12: Robinson R-22 (N74842) — Pompano Beach, FL

Pompano Beach, FL, US

On February 12, 2003, a Robinson R-22 (registration N74842) was involved in an aviation accident near Pompano Beach, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff which resulted in in uncontrolled descent and the helicopter impacting the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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

A student pilot on his first solo flight experienced a loss of control while waiting for approaching helicopters, resulting in the helicopter coming to rest on its side.

Incident Overview

A student pilot preparing for his first solo flight reported that the collective control was down and the governor was engaged. As two Jet Ranger helicopters approached his location, he decided to delay his takeoff. The student stated that his helicopter was not light on the skids and believed it yawed left and then right, though he was uncertain of the sequence. His next memory was attempting to switch off the main switch as the helicopter lay on its side.

Witness Observations

Witnesses reported seeing the helicopter out of control before it came to rest on the ground on its side. No further details of the trajectory or duration of the loss of control were provided.

Student's Account

The student affirmed that there had been no preaccident failure or malfunction of the helicopter or any of its systems. The incident occurred during the pilot's first solo flight, but the specific aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, number of occupants, injuries, and extent of damage were not disclosed in the available information.

Conclusion

The investigation did not assign a probable cause to the incident. The available facts are limited to the student's recollection and witness observations, with no identified mechanical issues.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030221X00248. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.