What can help prevent dynamic rollover?

Dynamic rollover is a critical situation in helicopter operations that occurs when the helicopter begins to roll over due to lateral or longitudinal instability, typically exacerbated by the helicopter's weight and balance. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of managing the helicopter's pitch and roll during takeoff or landing phases when the helicopter is most vulnerable to this instability.

Lowering collective pitch reduces lift, which allows a controlled descent and stabilizes the helicopter. At the same time, applying lateral cyclic opposite to the direction of the roll counteracts the tilt, helping to bring the helicopter back to an upright position. This coordinated input is essential in mitigating the risk of dynamic rollover, particularly in situations where there is uneven ground or when the helicopter is transitioning from a hover to forward flight, conditions that can easily lead to loss of control.

In contrast, maintaining a high center of gravity and fast forward speed can create additional challenges in stability and control. Low friction surfaces may not directly prevent rollover, and performing steep turns can introduce more risk under unstable conditions rather than providing any stabilizing effect. Thus, managing pitch and cyclic control is critical for preventing dynamic rollover during critical flight phases.