Background
A helicopter was in cruise flight when the pilot decided to demonstrate an autorotation to a passenger. The maneuver was initiated, and during the recovery attempt, the pilot observed the activation of a horn and the illumination of a red light on the caution panel.
Event
In response to the warning indicators, the pilot leveled the helicopter and applied pitch for landing. Subsequently, the helicopter experienced a rocking motion. The main rotor then struck the tail boom, resulting in the tail boom separating from the helicopter.
Outcome
The pilot reported that he did not believe the engine had lost power during the incident. The helicopter sustained damage due to the tail boom separation.