Accident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) applicant was conducting an initial CFI checkride when the helicopter landed hard, slid across the runway, and came to rest in adjacent grass. The designated pilot examiner (DPE) was evaluating the applicant. Both individuals exited the helicopter after the accident.
Sequence of Events
The CFI applicant stated that after several autorotative landings, the DPE asked for a 180-degree autorotation to a power recovery. While on downwind at 60 knots and 96 percent main rotor rpm, the low rotor horn activated. The applicant noted "rpm is stable" and began the turn. About 90 degrees into the turn, the DPE said "you're too slow" and took the controls. The applicant believed the DPE would apply throttle, but the descent continued. The applicant later said the DPE did not apply throttle when taking over.
The DPE described that during the left turn, the low rotor horn came on at about 97 percent rpm. The applicant continued descending until at 100-200 feet above ground, 40 knots, nose down. When rpm decreased through 80 percent, the DPE took the controls, pushed collective full down, rolled on full throttle, and applied left cyclic. The helicopter turned only 40 degrees and contacted the runway near the centerline at that angle, in a level attitude. It skidded about 125 feet before coming to rest upright.
Post-Accident Statements
The DPE asked the applicant if the engine was running when he opened full throttle, as he did not get the expected response. The applicant replied he did not remember. The DPE advised him to "stick to your story about not remembering." The DPE also stated he told the applicant earlier to say that when the throttle was rolled off, the engine stopped running, and to stick to that story.
Both individuals indicated no mechanical failure or malfunction.
Training Background
A flight evaluation 6 days prior by a Robinson instructor rated the applicant as average in all areas, including 180-degree autorotations. Robinson's practice autorotation procedures specify keeping rpm in the green arc and airspeed 60-70 KIAS.