Incident Overview
A helicopter sustained damage during a landing after the pilot reported a loss of engine power. The incident occurred as the aircraft was on approach to a hover. The pilot described the sequence of events in a statement following the event.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that while passing through 60 feet above ground level during the approach, the engine lost power. He stated that he pulled back on the cyclic to slow down and initiate autorotation, and began to roll off the throttle and lower the collective. According to the pilot, almost immediately after these actions, engine power returned and the rotor rpm needles joined, accompanied by a yawing motion of the aircraft. He attempted to apply power and recover from the situation, but reported that his rate of descent, low altitude, and adverse yaw complicated the recovery. Subsequently, the helicopter impacted the ground and slid to a stop.
Postaccident Examination
Following the incident, a postaccident examination of the helicopter was conducted. The examination failed to reveal any pre-impact anomalies. No mechanical or system malfunctions were identified that could explain the reported loss of engine power.