Flight History
On 6 July 2023, a training course for the Private Pilot Licence (Helicopter) [PPL(H)] was conducted at the Warszawa Babice aerodrome (EPBC) using a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration OK-LUK. The training was provided by Declared Training Organisation (DTO) GSA Aviation Sp. z o.o. The planned flight included spot hovering practice in the designated area of EPBC, followed by a transfer to Chrcynno landing field (EPNC) for emergency response training.
Based on CCTV footage, the helicopter was positioned on the north side of the aerodrome on the helipad in front of hangar 11A. At approximately 15:00, the student-pilot and instructor-pilot arrived at the aerodrome, prepared the helicopter, and proceeded to launch. During the take-off attempt at around 15:17, the helicopter began to rotate to the left relative to the vertical axis. A 360° rotation occurred, resulting in a 'cradle-like' movement. While remaining in contact with the landing area, the helicopter alternately struck the ground with the front and back of the skids. The instructor-pilot stopped the rotation and then switched off the engine.
Injuries and Damage
The crew (student-pilot and instructor-pilot) suffered no injuries. The helicopter was severely damaged.
Probable Causes
The investigation identified the following probable causes of the occurrence: 1. Inadequate coordination of the student-pilot's actions during takeoff, involving inappropriate correlation of the speed of movement of the collective pitch lever relative to foot controls. 2. Late reaction of the instructor-pilot to the mistake made by the student-pilot.