Accident Overview
During a student pilot's second solo flight, a helicopter accident occurred during the takeoff attempt. The student pilot and his flight instructor, who witnessed the event, both reported that the student pilot applied excessive left anti-torque pedal while raising the collective for takeoff.
Sequence of Events
The helicopter first slid to the left off the landing pad and then began spinning to the left. According to the witness, the helicopter completed three full spins on the ground with its skids still in contact with the surface. It then lifted approximately two feet into the air and performed three additional left spins. The student pilot stated that he attempted to reduce the collective, but the right skid contacted the ground, causing the helicopter to roll over onto its right side.
Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the cabin and tail section. The student pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the aircraft.