Accident Overview
A student pilot was performing a pre-departure hover maneuver in a helicopter when the aircraft departed controlled flight and impacted the ground. The pilot reported that while attempting a 360-degree right pedal turn, the rotation speed began to increase approximately 180 degrees into the turn.
Pilot Actions
The pilot acknowledged that his reaction to the increased rotation speed was not as decisive as it should have been. Instead of applying left pedal to counter the rotation, he released pressure on the right pedal. This allowed the helicopter to depart controlled flight.
Damage and Mechanical Status
The helicopter came to rest upright after the impact. Substantial damage was sustained by the tail rotor drive shaft and boom. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Conclusion
The accident occurred during a routine hover maneuver, and the pilot's input in response to an increasing yaw rate was insufficient to maintain control.