Incident Overview
A flight instructor reported that a helicopter sustained substantial damage after experiencing a dynamic rollover during a training exercise. The instructor had given instructions to a student pilot to hover over a grass area on the airport property. The helicopter was hovering approximately 18 to 30 inches above the ground before it came to rest on its side.
Sequence of Events
According to a statement provided to the FAA, the flight instructor had transferred control of the helicopter to the student pilot. The student pilot began to overcontrol the helicopter, inducing a pendulum motion. As the helicopter approached the ground, the right skid made contact, leading to a dynamic rollover.
Damage Assessment
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor, tail boom, and tail rotor drive shaft.
Mechanical Status
The flight instructor reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.