What happened
On 15 October 2000, a Robinson R22 BETA, registration G-OSIP, was engaged in a training flight at Swansea Airport. Following a 15-minute period of dual instruction, the instructor disembarked the aircraft to allow the student pilot to perform solo circuits. The meteorological conditions at the time were reported as good, with light and variable winds at the surface.
As the student pilot initiated the takeoff, the helicopter began to yaw toward the left. This rotation continued for roughly 360 degrees while the skids remained in contact with the ground. Shortly after this rotation, the aircraft lifted approximately two feet from the surface before rolling onto its right side. While the student pilot on board escaped without injury, the instructor, who had recently exited the aircraft and was standing at a distance, was struck by debris and sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. The inquiry focused on the sequence of events during the transition from dual to solo flight and the mechanical or aerodynamic factors that led to the uncontrolled yaw and subsequent roll during the takeoff phase.