Incident Overview
During a training flight, a helicopter collided with the runway while executing a power recovery autorotation. The instructor pilot reported that the aircraft began to vibrate as the maneuver was terminated. The commercially rated student pilot applied power, and the engine responded, but the rotor RPM decayed. The helicopter then struck the runway.
Instructor Actions
The instructor pilot acknowledged being late in taking control of the aircraft and initiating recovery procedures. No further details regarding the instructor's actions were provided.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the helicopter following the accident. The inspection revealed no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures. The aircraft's systems were found to be functional up to the point of impact.
Training Context
The accident occurred during a training maneuver known as a power recovery autorotation, a procedure used to simulate engine failure and practice recovery. The specific type of helicopter, its registration, and the location were not disclosed in the investigation source.