Background
A private helicopter pilot under instruction was practicing autorotations as part of flight training. The pilot completed 10 straight-in autorotations followed by five 180-degree autorotations.
Accident Sequence
During the last autorotation, the flight instructor observed that as the helicopter approached the ground, its nose was too low. The instructor took the controls and attempted to level the helicopter. He was able to reduce some of the vertical and forward airspeed; however, the left skid touched down and dug into the turf. The helicopter then tumbled forward and came to rest on its side.
Pilot Information
The pilot receiving instruction had accumulated 1,540 total helicopter flight hours, with 7 hours in the accident helicopter type.
Instructor's Observations
The flight instructor stated that although he was on or near the controls at all times, he had been confident in the other pilot's ability "to keep it safe." He also noted that the change in the helicopter’s nose attitude occurred rapidly for the worse, and that he had little time to take over and complete a safe landing.