What happened
During a practical flight test examination for a private pilot certificate, the engine of a Schweizer 300C lost power. The Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) simulated the loss of engine power by retarding the throttle to idle. In response, the student pilot lowered the collective and began performing an autorotation to the ground. The DPE noted a loss of engine noise and confirmed that the engine had lost power.
The student pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. During the landing sequence, the tail rotor blades and stinger impacted the ground. As the helicopter slid toward a stop, it veered to the left and underwent a rollover. There were no injuries reported in the accident.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft systems and the engine revealed no abnormalities. An operational run test was performed on the engine. After starting the engine, the cockpit-mounted oil pressure gauge showed indications within the normal operating range. The operation of the engine-driven fuel pump and the electrical fuel boost pump was verified as proper.
Once the engine reached operating temperature, the throttle was advanced to approximately 2,500 rpm to check the magnetos via the cockpit ignition switch. Both magnetos functioned within the manufacturer's specifications. The engine ran smoothly during the operational check without any unusual indications, fuel leaks, or oil leaks.