Probable cause
The student pilot’s improper bank control during takeoff, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.
NTSB analysis
The flight instructor reported that, after the student pilot performed several practice approaches, they landed the helicopter, and the flight instructor exited. The instructor reported that, after the start, the student pilot attempted to take off; the left skid lifted off the ground, but the right skid did not. Subsequently, the helicopter rolled to the right and came to rest on its right side.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system.
The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA509 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 24, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bremerton, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Bremerton National (PWT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R22
- N-number
- N7198J
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2001
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.