Event
On 13 August 2002 at 0804 UTC, a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, registration G-BOEX, was being operated on a training flight at Cranfield Airport, Bedford. The sole occupant was a 27-year-old student pilot with 50 hours of flying experience, all on type.
The student was instructed to hover taxi the helicopter from the maintenance area to the flying school's main dispersal. After completing normal pre-flight checks, the engine was started and the collective lever was raised for lift-off. As the helicopter left the ground, it began to rotate to the right.
Yaw Control Attempts
The pilot applied left rudder pedal input in an attempt to control the yaw, but this failed to affect the rotation. He then decided to centralise the rudder pedals. The helicopter continued to rotate. After approximately six rotations, a metallic sound was heard from the rear. The helicopter then descended, struck the ground, and immediately rolled over onto its right side.
Aftermath
The pilot, who was unhurt, managed to vacate the cabin via the left side. During the rotations, the helicopter had drifted downwind, causing its tail rotor to strike the main rotor blade of another helicopter parked nearby. The helicopter sustained damage beyond economic repair.
Additional Details
The pilot usually used back cushions to assist with the application of full yaw pedal, but on this occasion the cushions were absent.