Incident Overview
A student pilot preparing for his first solo flight in a Robinson R44 II helicopter experienced an unexpected chain of events during the pre-flight checklist. While performing the sprag clutch check, the pilot "split the needles" (indicating engine and rotor RPM divergence) and then released the throttle to continue with the checklist. Moments later, the governor activated, increasing the rotor RPM to 102 percent. The helicopter began to spin on the pavement.
Sequence of Events
As the helicopter rotated, the pilot-side skid caught a crack in the pavement. The skid collapsed, causing the rotor and tail boom to strike the ground. The student pilot stated that he never applied, unlocked, or released the collective control during the incident.
Post-Incident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the flight controls and found no abnormalities. The exact cause of the governor activation and subsequent spin was not determined, but the event highlighted the sensitivity of the governor system during ground operations.
Damage
The helicopter sustained damage to the skid, rotor system, and tail boom. No information was provided regarding injuries or the extent of other damage.