Accident Details
During a hover instruction session, a skid-equipped helicopter was operated approximately three feet above the ground. The flight instructor was providing training to an airplane-rated student, allowing the student to make flight control inputs while the instructor guarded the controls. The area was level and covered with weeds about one foot tall.
As the hover progressed, the helicopter began to drift laterally and descend. The right skid contacted the weeds, causing the helicopter to roll onto its right side. The instructor stated, "I was not quick enough in lowering the collective to prevent full rollover."
Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and engine mounts.
Instructor's Report
According to the National Transportation Safety Board's Pilot Aircraft Accident Report, the instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The instructor further noted that the accident could have been prevented by conducting hover practice at a higher altitude and away from obstacles that might serve as a pivot point leading to dynamic rollover.