What happened
On 27 May 2005, a Robinson R22 Beta, registration G-SUMT, was performing a private local flight near Sherburn in Elmet Aerodrome. After a flight duration of approximately 30 minutes, the pilot initiated an approach to the aerodrome, flying parallel to Runway 06. The weather conditions were characterized by good visibility, though haze was beginning to develop.
As the helicopter descended to roughly 15 feet above the ground, the pilot attempted to hover taxi to a specific landing area. During this maneuver, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control. One occupant, seated in the left seat, noted that the helicopter began a rapid, uncontrolled turn. A witness on the ground observed the aircraft flying at a height of approximately six feet before it pitched nose up and yawed to the right, eventually sliding backward and striking the ground tail-first. The impact resulted in extensive damage to the aircraft, though both crew members sustained only minor injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight conditions and the mechanical state of the aircraft. At the time of the accident, the wind was estimated to be between 12 and 15 knots from 030 degrees. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft had no reported mechanical unserviceabilities prior to the final hover.
Technical inquiries focused on the aerodynamic behavior of the Robinson R22 Beta during low-altitude maneuvers. It was established that the anti-torque pedals on this model are highly responsive. Specifically, applying the collective lever to reach a hover requires the use of the left pedal to counteract torque. Furthermore, given the aircraft's approach heading of 060 degrees against a 030-degree wind, the aircraft would have been subject to a wind-induced left yaw.
Findings
- The aircraft was performing a hover taxi at a very low altitude when the loss of control occurred.
- The pilot was managing the transition to a hover, a phase requiring precise pedal inputs to counteract both engine torque and wind effects.
- The sudden yaw and pitch instability led to the aircraft striking the ground tail-first.