What happened
The incident occurred while a student pilot was conducting local flight training focused on takeoff and landing procedures. During the ninth approach of the practice session, the helicopter began to descend at an excessive rate with a steep approach angle. In an attempt to arrest the descent, the pilot initiated a flare and applied power. This maneuver caused the main rotor RPM to decay significantly. The helicopter subsequently landed hard and bounced back into the air. On the second touchdown, the aircraft rolled over.
The investigation
The physical examination of the helicopter revealed damage consistent with a rollover following a hard landing. The sequence of events indicates that the pilot's attempt to correct the steep approach resulted in a loss of rotor energy, leading to an uncontrolled impact.
Findings
Contributing factors included the steep approach angle and the subsequent main rotor RPM decay. The pilot's decision to flare and apply power at an inappropriate airspeed or altitude likely exacerbated the descent rate rather than mitigating it. The hard landing and bounce were direct consequences of the failed arrest of the descent.
Safety message
Pilots practicing approaches should maintain a stabilized approach profile. Flaring too late or with insufficient airspeed can lead to rotor RPM decay and loss of control authority, particularly in helicopters where energy management is critical for safe landings.