Incident Overview
A student pilot was operating a helicopter during a departure from a hover. While climbing through an altitude of 50 to 60 feet above ground, the pilot heard a loud bang and a high-pitched whine. In response, the pilot executed an autorotation. The pilot reported a hard touchdown followed by sliding on grass. During the landing, the nose pitched down, and the main rotor blades struck the tail boom.
Examination Findings
Post-incident examination of the helicopter revealed that a blade had separated from the engine-cooling fan and penetrated the fan shroud. The fan blades were attached to the fan disk using one bolt and two rivets. Evidence of corrosion was found on the fan disk and on the failed rivets.
Additional Details
The incident occurred under the control of a student pilot. No further specifics regarding the helicopter type, registration, operator, location, or occupants were provided. The time of day and weather conditions are not described. No injuries or fatalities are mentioned in the source.