N621DM

On October 17, 2000, about 0800 eastern daylight time, a Robinson R-22 Beta, N621DM, registered to and operated by Skycopters Incorporated, as a Title 14 CFR Part 91 aerial observation flight, experienced dynamic rollover during takeoff from a field in Dellwood, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The pilot and passenger received minor injuries, and the aircraft incurred substantial damage. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot stated that his headset came off in flight, and he had landed in a field to secure the headset. The pilot further stated that while attempting to takeoff from the field, and upon transitioning from hover to takeoff, the helicopter's right skid became entangled in vines hidden in the undergrowth. The pilot said that the skid's entanglement with the vines while he was attempting the takeoff induced dynamic rollover on to the aircraft's right side. He said that when the aircraft rolled over, the main and tail rotor systems separated from the aircraft, and the tail boom broke off. According to the pilot, prior to the accident, there had been no mechanical failure or malfunction to the aircraft, or any on its systems.