Factual Information
On 28 July 2017 at 07:28 UTC, a Robinson R22 BETA II helicopter, registration OK-HLC, was conducting training flights at Hradec Králové Airport (LKHK). The aircraft was operated by a legal entity and used primarily for training. The crew consisted of a student pilot and an instructor. The student, a 26-year-old male with a valid Class 2 medical certificate, had logged 35 hours on the R22. The instructor, aged 57, held a CPL(H) with over 5,256 total flight hours and 1,567 hours as an instructor.
Sequence of Events
The training session began at 06:00 with circuit work, followed by hovering and low-level translation practice in a designated area behind taxiway DELTA. After approximately 20 minutes, the crew practiced lateral hovering (sideward flight) using a narrow asphalt road for visual references. The student performed a right sideward hover first, then attempted a left sideward hover. During the left hover, the left skid contacted the ground, causing the helicopter to roll left. The instructor attempted corrective cyclic input, but the rotor blades struck the ground and the helicopter rolled onto its left side. The crew evacuated; the instructor reported minor to serious injuries. The helicopter sustained substantial damage.
Crew and Aircraft Information
The student pilot had completed ground training on 13 and 17 July 2017 and began practical training on the R22. The instructor reported that the student had difficulties with directional control and pedal coordination. The aircraft, manufactured in 2007, had a total time of 1,895 hours and 30 minutes. It was equipped with a Lycoming O-360-12A engine. Fuel tanks contained approximately 50 liters of AVGAS 100 LL (47% capacity) filled the previous day.
Investigation
The accident was investigated by the Czech Accident Investigation Institute (ÚZPLN). The AFIS dispatcher notified emergency services, and IZS units responded. The investigation included examination of the wreckage and interviews. No probable cause was explicitly stated in the provided report.