Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from the surface during lateral hover, which resulted in dynamic rollover.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The certificated flight instructor stated that the helicopter was at a hover, and that he was on the flight controls with the student during the student's inaugural flight. According to the instructor, the helicopter drifted laterally to the right, caught the right skid in the turf, and "experienced dynamic rollover." When asked about the performance and handling of the helicopter, the instructor stated that it was "performing as normal."
Source record
Factual narrative
The certificated flight instructor stated that the helicopter was at a hover, and that he was on the flight controls with the student during the student's inaugural flight. According to the instructor, the helicopter drifted laterally to the right, caught the right skid in the turf, and "experienced dynamic rollover." When asked about the performance and handling of the helicopter, the instructor stated that it was "performing as normal."