What happened
On November 4, 2010, a Robinson R-22 helicopter, registration PT-HOL, was conducting a flight training mission at Campo de Marte Aerodrome (SBMT) in São Paulo. The flight, operated by Master Escola de Pilotagem de Helicóptero Ltda., was part of a private pilot training program.
During the return taxi to the parking area on taxiway "F", the aircraft encountered a sudden gust of wind from the rear. This wind caused the helicopter to experience weathercock stability effects, leading to an uncommanded yaw to the right. In an attempt to correct the deviation, the student pilot applied full right pedal, which inadvertently accelerated the rightward rotation. The aircraft tilted significantly to the right, causing the main rotor blades to strike the pavement. The helicopter sustained severe damage to the main rotor, transmission, mast, clutch, and tail boom components. The instructor was uninjured, while the student sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the sequence of control inputs and the training environment. Investigators examined the flight training records, noting that while the student was at a stage where taxi proficiency was expected, the school's instructional documentation—including flight evaluation forms—was found to be generic and lacked specific, actionable feedback for the student.
The investigation also looked into the instructor's role, noting that the instructor's passive posture in the cockpit prevented timely intervention to correct the student's erroneous control input. Additionally, the investigation identified organizational deficiencies within the flight school, such as the absence of written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and a lack of dedicated flight safety management. Regarding the aerodrome, investigators noted that the control tower's view of taxiway "F" was obstructed by hangars, which delayed the notification of the accident.
Findings
- The student pilot's incorrect application of full right pedal directly contributed to the loss of control by increasing the rightward yaw.
- The instructor's failure to intervene promptly during the onset of the yaw contributed to the impact.
- Weathercock stability, caused by a tailwind component, initiated the uncommanded yaw.
- Inadequate instructional oversight and generic training records hindered the student's professional development.
- Organizational gaps in the flight school, including the lack of formal safety management and standardized procedures, were identified as contributing factors.