What happened
The pilot was conducting a check ride for a helicopter flight instructor certificate when the accident occurred. During the flight, the pilot was demonstrating autorotations to touchdown for an FAA inspector.
While performing the turn from base to final approach, the pilot inadvertently raised the collective prematurely. This action caused the main rotor speed to decay. As a result, the helicopter landed hard, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
The FAA inspector on board noted that he realized the helicopter was going to land short of the intended touchdown site. The inspector stated that while he typically rests his hand on the collective during practice autorotations, he did not do so during this specific maneuver.