Introduction
On March 9, 2011, at approximately 2230 central daylight time, a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, registration N372LE, sustained substantial damage when it collided with the runway at Lake Charles Regional Airport (LCH) in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The helicopter was owned by Bend Helicopter Partners, LLC and operated by Performance Helicopters, LLC.
Flight Details
The flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a solo training flight. No flight plan had been filed. Weather conditions at the time were described as dark night with marginal visual meteorological conditions. The local flight had originated from the airport about 2130.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, he had been maintaining a stabilized hover on the approach end of the runway for approximately 15 to 20 seconds. While preparing to move the cyclic forward to initiate forward flight, the helicopter's nose began an uncommanded turn to the right. The pilot applied additional left pedal input, but the helicopter quickly gained rotational momentum and speed, entering an uncontrolled spin.
Impact and Damage
The pilot subsequently lowered the collective pitch lever, and the helicopter struck the runway surface. The impact caused the tail rotor hub and both tail rotor blades to separate. The main rotor blades and tail boom exhibited impact damage. The helicopter came to rest in an upright position. Numerous 360-degree swirl marks were observed on the runway surface.
Investigation
Post-accident examination revealed no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.