Casualties unknown

Helicopter Rollover After Autorotation Power Loss and Skid Collapse (N9460F)

Marshville, NC, US

On May 28, 1986, a Hughes 300/269B (registration N9460F) was involved in an aviation accident near Marshville, NC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During an instructional flight, a helicopter lost engine power during a power recovery from a practice autorotation, completed a landing in a preselected field, and rolled over after a skid collapsed.

Incident Summary

During an instructional flight, the helicopter was conducting a practice autorotation. Upon attempting a power recovery at the conclusion of the maneuver, power was applied and the engine subsequently lost power. The autorotation was completed to a preselected practice field. After landing, one of the landing skids collapsed, causing the helicopter to roll over.

Subsequent Testing

Following the incident, no mechanical difficulties were found with the aircraft. An engine test run was conducted and was successful, indicating that the engine operated normally when tested separately.

Instructor Recommendation

The flight instructor involved recommended that a power check be performed at least 500 feet above ground level (AGL) during future flights.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33479. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.