Primary finding
Probable cause
A loss of tail rotor effectiveness while hovering in crosswind conditions resulting in the student pilot's loss of control of the helicopter, impact with terrain, and dynamic rollover.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student pilot reported that while hovering, the helicopter encountered a gust of wind and began to yaw to the right. The student pilot was unable to correct for the unanticipated right yaw, resulting in the forward portion of the helicopter’s right skid impacting the ground, and a subsequent dynamic rollover. The rollover resulted in substantial damage to the main rotor blades, tail boom, tail rotor, and vertical stabilizer. The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.