What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-10-14 involved a Bell 47G-3B-1, registration N90463, at Schaumburg, IL.

Hard Landing During Autorotation Practice (N90463)

On October 14, 2003, a Bell 47G-3B-1 (registration N90463) was involved in an aviation accident near Schaumburg, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The commercial pilot not maintaining directional control of the helicopter and the improper flare initiated before landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A helicopter hard landed during an autorotation practice maneuver, resulting in main rotor blade strike to tail rotor drive shaft and tailboom. Flight instructor and commercial pilot on board.

Incident Overview

A helicopter experienced a hard landing while practicing an autorotation maneuver. The flight crew consisted of a certified flight instructor (CFI) and a commercial-rated pilot receiving flight instruction.

Maneuver Execution

According to the CFI, the commercial pilot initiated the autorotation, executed a 180-degree turn, and continued the descent. When the helicopter reached an altitude between 50 and 60 feet above ground level, the commercial pilot began the flare.

Yaw and Corrective Actions

Immediately after the flare, the helicopter began to yaw to the left. The CFI reported instructing the commercial pilot to correct the yaw and align the helicopter straight with the ground. The CFI stated that he "came on the cyclic" to ensure a straight track was achieved.

Outcome

A hard landing occurred. The impact resulted in the main rotor blades striking the tail rotor drive shaft and tailboom.

2003-10-14: Bell 47G-3B-1 (N90463) — Schaumburg, IL