Accident Details
On 11 February 2012 at 1415 UTC, a Robinson R44 Raven (registration G-SRPH, serial number 1849) was involved in an accident at Crossmaglen, Northern Ireland. The aircraft was powered by one Lycoming O-540-F1B5 piston engine. The private flight had one pilot on board and no passengers. The pilot held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 113 hours of total flying experience, all on type, with no flying in the previous 90 days.
Sequence of Events
The pilot was attempting a takeoff from a confined site with various small buildings in the immediate vicinity. The surface wind was westerly at 8 kt with no significant weather. As the helicopter lifted off, it yawed to the left. The pilot applied opposite pedal to counter the yaw but over‑corrected. He then applied more collective in an attempt to escape the situation, but the helicopter yawed through approximately 180° and reached a height of about 25 to 30 ft before descending. Before the helicopter hit the ground, the pilot pulled the cyclic control aft to slow down. The tail struck the ground and the main rotor blades struck a nearby Portakabin, causing severe damage to the Portakabin. The helicopter came to rest upright on its skids.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained damage to the tail boom, main and tail rotor blades, doors, panels, and a Portakabin. The pilot reported no injuries.
Pilot's Report
The pilot attributed the accident to over‑controlling on pedals and collective.