What happened
On 28 February 2023, a training flight involving a Robinson R22 Beta, registration OK-MAZ, resulted in an accident at Lubin Airport (EPLU). The flight was part of a PPL(H) training program conducted by NISA AIR.
During the final phase of the approach to landing, the student pilot attempted a hover at an altitude of approximately 2 meters AGL. While in this hover, the helicopter began to rotate around its vertical axis. The student pilot attempted to correct the rotation by applying maximum left pedal; however, the rotation continued, causing the helicopter to tilt to the left. The main rotor blades struck the ground, leading the aircraft to collide with the grassy area of the airport and roll onto its left side. The student pilot sustained minor injuries and was able to exit the cabin unassisted before emergency services arrived.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the flight history, aircraft maintenance, and meteorological conditions. The investigation established that the aircraft was airworthy, the weight and center of gravity were within limits, and there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the helicopter's systems. The investigation also reviewed the student pilot's qualifications, noting that the pilot was authorized for solo flight and had a valid medical certificate. Meteorological data showed wind speeds of approximately 3.5 m/s with gusts up to 7 m/s, blowing from the left side of the fuselage during the hover.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the student pilot's delayed and indecisive application of the left pedal, combined with a vigorous upward movement of the collective pitch control, which further accelerated the aircraft's rotation.
- The student pilot performed a hover without adequately accounting for the wind direction, which created unfavorable conditions for the aircraft.
- The student pilot's limited experience in solo flight contributed to the error.
- The flight maneuvers being performed were inconsistent with the specific training exercise requirements for that portion of the program.