Incident Overview
A helicopter conducting autorotation training collided with the ground and rolled over. The accident occurred in a practice area after the instructor had circled the landing zone to assess wind direction. Prior to the autorotation, the crew performed three practice traffic patterns leading to a normal hover.
Sequence of Events
The helicopter climbed to approximately 800 feet above ground level (AGL). The instructor verified wind conditions and engine instruments before initiating a standard autorotation into the wind. At about 40 feet AGL, the instructor began a cyclic flare and observed that the ground was approaching more rapidly than expected. He continued the flare to reduce descent rate and airspeed, but the helicopter did not respond as anticipated. He then reapplied engine power and raised the collective. The low rotor rpm warning horn activated just before impact.
Impact and Post-Accident
The helicopter struck the ground, skidded roughly 100 feet, and came to rest on its left side. According to the student pilot, the engine was still running after the accident, and no mechanical issues had been noted prior to the event. The reported winds at the time were from 060 degrees at 5 knots, gusting to 14 knots.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was stated in the source.