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Casualties unknown

Helicopter Damaged During Low-Level Autorotation Demonstration (N5754A)

Ft. Worth, TX, US

On May 4, 1987, a Bell 206B (registration N5754A) was involved in an aviation accident near Ft. Worth, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a low-level 180-degree autorotation demonstration, the CFI undershot the touchdown point. The pilot allowed rotor RPM to decay, leading to high sink rate. Late power recovery attempt resulted in substantial damage.

Incident Details

While demonstrating a low-level 180-degree autorotation to a rated pilot, the certified flight instructor (CFI) undershot the intended touchdown point. In an attempt to reach the selected touchdown point, the pilot allowed the rotor RPM to decay, causing the aircraft to develop a high sink rate.

Sequence of Events

The pilot then attempted a power recovery but was late with the corrective action. The aircraft contacted the ground and bounced twice before coming to rest on its right side. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the impact.

Damage

The helicopter received substantial damage. No further details regarding the extent of damage or injuries were provided in the source.

Loss of control in flight

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Bell 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 May 1987 Bell 206B accident near Ft. Worth, TX?

During a low-level 180-degree autorotation demonstration, the CFI undershot the touchdown point. The pilot allowed rotor RPM to decay, leading to high sink rate. Late power recovery attempt resulted in substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 May 1987 involved a Bell 206B, registration N5754A, at Ft. Worth, TX.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30933. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.