Flight Instructor reported a near mid-air collision in the traffic pattern with a helicopter that turned into their path after being instructed by tower to turn behind them.

Date: 2024-01 · Aircraft: Small Aircraft · Phase: takeoff

Anomalies: conflict-nmac

Synopsis

Flight Instructor reported a near mid-air collision in the traffic pattern with a helicopter that turned into their path after being instructed by tower to turn behind them.

Narrative

Following a go-around on Runway 28L; our aircraft was approximately 350 feet AGL on the upwind leg when we heard instructions from the tower advising a helicopter departing between the parallel runways to maintain visual separation and turn southbound behind us. The helicopter pilot acknowledged these instructions.Despite the acknowledgment; the helicopter turned directly into our flight path; effectively cutting us off on the upwind leg at an altitude of approximately 350 feet. Recognizing the imminent risk of collision; I; as the instructor; immediately took control of the aircraft and executed an early crosswind turn. Concurrently; I informed ATC of the situation to ensure awareness and coordination.This maneuver resulted in our aircraft being in close proximity to traffic on the downwind for Runway 28L; introducing an additional layer of complexity and risk to the situation.Reinforce the importance of compliance with ATC instructions for all pilots; particularly during high-density operations near active runways.Conduct a review of the incident with ATC and involved parties to identify procedural improvements.Consider implementing additional monitoring or restrictions for helicopter operations between parallel runways to prevent similar incidents.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.