NTSB Factual Report

On October 8, 2010, about 1030 Pacific daylight time, a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, N2356T, landed hard and struck the tail rotor on the ground at the Scappoose Industrial Airpark (SPB), Scappoose, Oregon. Hillsboro Aviation operated the helicopter under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a training flight. The certificated flight instructor (CFI) and student pilot were not injured. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor and left rear portion of the airframe. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, and no flight plan had been filed.

According to the CFI, he and the student pilot flew to SPB to practice pattern work, hover work, and some "set downs and pickups.” On the third set down, after the landing skids touched down, the helicopter started to spin to the right about 180 degrees. The CFI attempted to correct the maneuver; however, the student was "too stiff" on the flight controls. The student overcame the CFI and raised the collective, and the helicopter became airborne about 2 to 3 feet above the ground. The helicopter then landed hard breaking the left rear skid. Subsequently, the tail rotor struck the ground and the helicopter made one complete rotation before coming to a rest. The CFI shut down the helicopter, and both the CFI and student pilot exited the helicopter normally.

The CFI reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident. Despite requests from investigators, the student pilot did not provide a statement.

NTSB Probable Cause

The student pilot’s failure to maintain helicopter control during the landing flare and his subsequent interference with the flight instructor's control inputs. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s inadequate supervision.