Aircraft and Flight Information
The aircraft involved was a Robinson R22 Beta, registration G-BXRK, manufactured in 1990. It was powered by a single Lycoming O-320-B2C piston engine. The flight was a private trial lesson, conducted by a 34-year-old male pilot holding a Private Pilot's Licence (Helicopters). He had 504 total flying hours, with 503 on type, but only 1 hour in the preceding 90 days and 1 hour in the preceding 28 days. One passenger (the student) was on board.
Location and Weather
The accident occurred at Sywell Aerodrome, Northampton, on 14 January 2001 at 1232 UTC. Weather conditions were CAVOK, with a surface wind of 060° at 14 knots.
Sequence of Events
The instructor was returning to the airfield to land. While bringing the helicopter to a hover, she discussed the differences in power and torque between forward flight and hovering with the student. She pointed out the manifold pressure setting during the approach and then again drew attention to the manifold pressure gauge. As she did so, she noticed the helicopter had descended, allowing the skid to contact the ground. She rapidly raised the collective control but was unable to prevent the helicopter from rolling over onto its right side.
Injuries and Damage
Both the pilot and the student exited the helicopter through the left door without injury. The helicopter sustained substantial damage.
Reported Cause
According to the pilot, a momentary lapse in concentration during the discussion with the student led to the occurrence.