What happened
On 19 July 1998, a Robinson R22 Beta, registration G-HVRS, was involved in an accident at RAF Church Fenton, North Yorkshire. The aircraft was being operated for private training purposes by a student pilot working towards a Private Pilot's Licence (Helicopters).
Earlier that morning, the student had completed a successful first solo flight under favorable weather conditions. Following a briefing from an instructor for an additional three circuits, the accident occurred during the second circuit. As the pilot was attempting to enter a hover, the rotor RPM governor was accidentally deselected. The subsequent illumination of the governor warning light drew the pilot's attention away from the flight controls. Consequently, the right skid of the helicopter struck the ground, leading to a rollover.
The investigation
The investigation examined the actions of the student pilot and the mechanical state of the aircraft. It was established that the pilot had previously practiced flying without the governor in two separate sessions. However, the sudden appearance of the warning light during a critical phase of flight served as a significant distraction. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft sustained damage beyond economic repair, though the single occupant sustained only minor injuries.