Primary finding
Probable cause
The student pilot's loss of directional control while hovering, and the instructor pilot's inadequate remedial action while attempting to take control of the helicopter.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the transition from a hover to a landing, the student pilot began to lose directional control of the helicopter. The certified flight instructor then attempted to take control of the helicopter, but he did not ensure that the student had completely removed his feet from the anti-torque pedals. Since the student's right foot was still in contact with the right anti-torque pedal, the aircraft spun to the right approximately two full rotations before impacting the ground and rolling onto its side.
Source record
Factual narrative
During the transition from a hover to a landing, the student pilot began to lose directional control of the helicopter. The certified flight instructor then attempted to take control of the helicopter, but he did not ensure that the student had completely removed his feet from the anti-torque pedals. Since the student's right foot was still in contact with the right anti-torque pedal, the aircraft spun to the right approximately two full rotations before impacting the ground and rolling onto its side.