What happened
On 30 June 2000, a Robinson R22 BETA, registration G-TCMP, was prepared for a private flight involving hovering and spot turns at Thruxton Airfield. The weather conditions were favorable, with good visibility and light winds. Following engine start and pre-take-off checks, a delay occurred because the passenger's headset was found to be unserviceable. During the period taken to retrieve a replacement headset, the aircraft remained stationary on the ramp amidst other active helicopters.
As the instructor moved away from the aircraft, the helicopter began to yaw rapidly to the left. In an attempt to avoid the instructor, who was positioned near the tail rotor, the pilot applied right cyclic and pulled up on the collective. This caused the aircraft to lift into a low, uncontrolled hover and complete a full 3-degree turn before descending back onto its skids. The movement caused the helicopter to roll onto its right side and skid several meters along the ground. The aircraft sustained damage beyond economic repair, though the pilot and passenger escaped with only minor injuries to the passenger.
The investigation
The investigation examined the sequence of events leading to the sudden rotation and the pilot's subsequent maneuvers. Investigators looked into the state of the aircraft controls during the delay, specifically the status of the collective pitch friction. The investigation also considered the environmental factors, including the presence of other aircraft and personnel in the immediate vicinity, and the pilot's actions to avoid a collision with the instructor.