Incident Overview
A helicopter sustained damage after colliding with the ground and rolling onto its left side during a hover maneuver. The accident occurred while a student pilot was practicing pedal turns under the supervision of a certified flight instructor (CFI). The helicopter had no reported mechanical failures or malfunctions during the flight, according to the CFI.
Sequence of Events
The student pilot initiated a 90-degree pedal turn to the right while hovering. As the turn was completed, the helicopter encountered a right crosswind, leading to a loss of directional control. The helicopter began to yaw to the left and drifted into a run-up area. The student pilot requested the CFI to take control of the helicopter.
Upon taking control, the CFI applied left pedal input. This action caused the left yaw to progress into a spin. Before the CFI could recognize the error and apply corrective input, the helicopter struck the ground and rolled onto its left side.
Weather Conditions
The Automated Surface Observation System at the airport reported wind from 240 degrees at 8 knots at the time of the accident.
Findings
The helicopter and engine were examined, and the CFI stated that no mechanical failures or malfunctions were present during the flight.