Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for a tailwind while hovering, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
While hovering, the student pilot lost directional control, and the helicopter spun around to the left 3 1/2 turns before it impacted the ground and rolled over after the right skid collapsed. The pilot reported that there was a tailwind of about 5 knots. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail boom and the main gear box frame. The pilot said that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter.
Source record
Factual narrative
While hovering the student pilot lost directional control and the helicopter spun around to the left 3 1/2 turns before rolling over after the right skid collapsed. The pilot reported that he had a tailwind of about 5 knots. The pilot said there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the helicopter.