Helicopter Suffers Dynamic Rollover During Hover Training

Accident Overview

A helicopter flight instructor was providing hover training to a student pilot when the accident occurred. The helicopter was at a 2-foot hover and began drifting to the left. The left rear skid made contact with the ground, initiating a left roll. The student pilot responded by pulling up on the collective, while the instructor attempted to push the collective down. The helicopter subsequently experienced a dynamic rollover and came to rest on its left side.

Meteorological Information

The flight instructor stated that wind gusts may have been a factor in the accident. The METAR being monitored around the time of the accident indicated wind from 210° at 8 knots. No wind gusts or convective activity were reported in the METAR observation.

Aircraft Damage

The helicopter sustained substantial damage to its tailboom and main rotor system. No preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported; both pilots confirmed the helicopter was operating normally prior to the event.