Casualties unknown

2007-09-12: Robinson R-22B (N965SH) — Silver State Helicopters — Long Beach, CA

Long Beach, CA, US

On September 12, 2007, a Robinson R-22B (registration N965SH) operated by Silver State Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Long Beach, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's loss of directional control while hovering, and the instructor pilot's inadequate remedial action while attempting to take control of the helicopter. 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 lost directional control during hover-to-landing. The instructor's takeover attempt was hindered because the student's foot remained on the anti-torque pedal, causing a spin and subsequent ground impact.

Incident Overview

During a training flight, a helicopter transitioned from a hover to a landing when the student pilot began to lose directional control. The certified flight instructor (CFI) attempted to take control of the helicopter but did not verify that the student had completely removed his feet from the anti-torque pedals.

Sequence of Events

The student's right foot remained in contact with the right anti-torque pedal. This caused the helicopter to spin to the right approximately two full rotations. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground and rolled onto its side.

Pilot Actions

The student pilot was operating the helicopter at the time of the loss of control. The CFI's intervention was incomplete, as he failed to ensure the student's feet were clear of the pedals before assuming control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20071012X01582. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.