Incident Overview
A flight instructor and a student pilot were conducting landing approach practice in a helicopter. The student was flying a normal approach to an open field, initiating a left base turn at an airspeed of 60 to 65 knots. During the turn, the student lowered the collective and applied aft cyclic.
Loss of Control
During the maneuver, the instructor observed that the helicopter was descending faster than anticipated. The instructor noted that "the collective was too far down, the cyclic was too far back, and [the student] had a tight hold on both controls." The instructor attempted to take control but was unable to move the collective or cyclic because of the student's grip. No verbal communication occurred during the struggle, which lasted approximately 3 to 4 seconds.
Impact and Fire
The helicopter subsequently landed hard, rolling onto its left side. Almost immediately, the helicopter caught fire. Both occupants exited the aircraft through the right door. The helicopter was destroyed by the fire.
Occupant Status
The source does not specify injuries or fatalities. Both occupants were able to exit the helicopter.