What happened
During a training session conducted by a flight instructor, the pilot of a helicopter was performing a simulated autorotation. While attempting to recover from the autorotation, the aircraft experienced a total loss of engine power. This loss of power resulted in the helicopter impacting the terrain.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine idle speed following the accident. The aircraft's checklist requires specific procedures to be performed at the end of the final flight of each day and prior to engine shutdown to ensure the engine idle speed is maintained within the range of 1,400-1,600 rpm. Investigation revealed that these required checks were not being conducted by the operator. Upon inspection of the engine after the accident, the idle speed was found to be only 700-800 rpm.