Aircraft and Flight Details
The helicopter involved was a Robinson R22 BETA, registered G-OSIP, powered by one Lycoming O-360-J2A piston engine. It was manufactured in 1999. The flight was a training sortie on 15 October 2000 at 1545 UTC at Swansea Airport. The sole occupant was a student pilot, aged 40, with 46 hours total flying experience, all on type, including 26 hours in the last 90 days and 10 hours in the last 28 days.
Sequence of Events
After 15 minutes of dual instruction, the instructor disembarked to allow the student to perform solo circuits. Weather conditions were good with a light and variable surface wind. As the helicopter began to lift off, it started to yaw to the left while the skids were still in contact with the ground. This left turn continued for approximately 360 degrees. The helicopter then lifted to about two feet above the ground and rolled onto its right side.
Injuries and Damage
The student pilot reported no injuries. The instructor, who was standing some distance away, was struck by debris from the helicopter and sustained serious injuries. The helicopter was damaged beyond economic repair.