Incident Summary
On October 8, 2010, at approximately 1030 Pacific daylight time, a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, registration N2356T, experienced a hard landing at the Scappoose Industrial Airpark (SPB) in Scappoose, Oregon. The helicopter was operated by Hillsboro Aviation under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a training flight. The flight instructor and student pilot were not injured. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor and the left rear portion of the airframe. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.
Sequence of Events
According to the certificated flight instructor (CFI), he and the student pilot flew to SPB to practice pattern work, hover work, and set downs and pickups. On the third set down, after the landing skids touched the ground, the helicopter began to spin to the right approximately 180 degrees. The CFI attempted to correct the maneuver, but the student was "too stiff" on the flight controls. The student overcame the CFI's inputs and raised the collective, causing the helicopter to become airborne about 2 to 3 feet above the ground. The helicopter then landed hard, breaking the left rear skid. Subsequently, the tail rotor struck the ground, and the helicopter made one complete rotation before coming to a stop. The CFI shut down the helicopter, and both occupants exited normally.
Aircraft and Operator Information
The accident aircraft was a Robinson R22 Beta, registered N2356T. Hillsboro Aviation was the operator. The flight was conducted as a training flight under Part 91.
Injuries and Damage
Neither the CFI nor the student pilot reported injuries. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor and the left rear portion of the airframe.
Pilot Statements
The CFI reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident. Despite requests from investigators, the student pilot did not provide a statement.
Weather and Flight Plan
Visual meteorological conditions were reported for the flight. No flight plan had been filed.