Incident Overview
An instructor pilot reported that during a training flight, after demonstrating ground maneuvers, he entered the traffic pattern to perform a practice autorotation. The autorotation was initiated at approximately 850 feet above the ground. The helicopter's airspeed and rotor rpm were within normal operating ranges (in the green), and the rate of descent was approximately 1,500 feet per minute.
Sequence of Events
According to the instructor, at approximately 40 feet above the ground, the flare was initiated. At the conclusion of the flare, the instructor announced "recover" and then stated, "I have the controls." However, the instructor was unable to recover the engine rpm. Subsequently, he leveled the helicopter and landed hard on the runway.
Damage Assessment
The impact with the runway resulted in the landing gear skids being crushed upward. Additionally, the fuselage and tail boom were buckled. No other damage was reported in the source.
Additional Information
The instructor did not specify the helicopter type, registration, number of occupants, or any injuries. The time of day, weather conditions, and ATC involvement were not mentioned. The source provides no analysis or conclusions regarding causal factors.