Accident Overview
On March 6, 2012, at approximately 0930 eastern standard time, a Bell 206B helicopter, registration N83AP, was substantially damaged during takeoff from a helicopter training area near Titusville, Florida. The helicopter was operated by Bristow Academy under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as an instructional flight. The certified flight instructor (CFI) and two non-certificated student pilots sustained minor injuries.
Flight Sequence
The flight originated at Space Coast Regional Airport (TIX) in Titusville at 0810, with the CFI serving as the lead of a flight of four helicopters conducting a check ride with the two students. After landing at the Echo Training Area, the students switched seats. During the subsequent takeoff, with the CFI at the controls, the helicopter rolled to the right immediately as the collective was raised. The CFI attempted to counter the roll with opposite cyclic input, but the helicopter continued to roll over and came to rest inverted. Once inverted, the CFI shut down the engine by turning off the fuel valve.
Post-Accident Examination
An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration examined the wreckage and reported that the main rotor blades had separated from the hub and the tail boom had fractured. The inspector also noted that the student in the right cockpit seat was still adjusting her anti-torque pedals with her feet as the CFI initiated the takeoff. The takeoff area was adjacent to a line of trees.
Weather Conditions
The weather recorded at Space Coast Regional Airport at 0950 included winds from 070 degrees at 28 knots, with gusts to 40 knots. The airport is located approximately 6 nautical miles northeast of the accident site.