Accident Overview
On 27 March 2022, a Robinson R44 II helicopter (registration SP-INW) was involved in an accident at EPPL aerodrome during a solo training flight. The aircraft was operated under a PPL(H) training program. The instructor had conducted a pre-flight inspection and an initial supervised check flight without issues. Around 7:45 hrs LMT, the instructor left the helicopter and authorized the student to perform a solo flight along the aerodrome traffic circuit.
Sequence of Events
During the attempt to take off (hover), the helicopter began to roll to the right side while simultaneously turning left around its vertical axis. Initially, the rear part of the right skid remained in contact with the ground. Moments later, the main rotor blades struck the ground, and the helicopter dynamically overturned onto its right side. The student fell out of the helicopter and walked unaided to a safe distance without sustaining any injuries. Shortly after, a fire broke out, completely destroying the helicopter.
Response and Inspection
Rescue services arrived at the site and extinguished the fire. The student was examined by a doctor from the HEMS team based at the aerodrome; no injuries were found. The student was not under the influence of alcohol. The helicopter was insured and had proper documentation. After inspection of the accident site, the wreckage was transported to its home base.
Cause
The accident investigation determined the cause to be a delayed reaction of the student in response to the helicopter roll to the right side with a simultaneous abrupt movement of the collective upward. No contributing factors were identified, and no safety recommendations were formulated.