Incident Details
A certified flight instructor was providing instruction to a private pilot who was training for a commercial rating. During the flight, the pair practiced a 180-degree autorotation. While performing this maneuver, a downdraft was encountered approximately 200 feet above ground level. The helicopter subsequently made a hard landing.
Pilot Statements
The flight instructor reported that he took control of the helicopter at about 150 feet above ground level and proceeded to bring back the power. He noted that rotor and engine RPM remained within the green range. When he pulled collective pitch, as he had done in similar situations before, the helicopter did not respond as expected. He stated, "I pulled collective, but it was almost as if the helicopter couldn't fly out of it."
Aircraft Information
No anomalies were reported with the helicopter following the incident. No further information about the aircraft make, model, or registration was provided.