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Helicopter Contacts Taxiway During Autorotation Flare (N123SD)

Twin Falls, ID, US

On November 21, 2007, a Bell 206A (registration N123SD) operated by Gerald Haye was involved in an aviation accident near Twin Falls, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the flare which resulted in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter on a post-annual flight check touched down hard during a 180-degree autorotation, resulting in a tail boom wrinkle. The pilot continued with another pattern and performed a normal landing.

Incident Overview

During a post-annual flight check, a helicopter pilot conducted a simulated engine-out autorotation. The flight was intended to verify the aircraft's autorotational rpm. The pilot occupied the left seat, with an observer in the right seat.

Event Sequence

The pilot entered a 180-degree autorotation and began a gradual flare at approximately 70 feet above ground level. During the flare, the helicopter contacted the asphalt surface of the taxiway, causing the aircraft to hop before coming to a stop. The pilot then initiated another pattern and performed a power recovery autorotation, followed by a hover taxi to the maintenance hangar ramp area. A normal shutdown was completed.

Post-Flight Inspection

A post-flight inspection revealed a wrinkle in the tail boom. No other damage was reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Nov 2007 Bell 206A accident near Twin Falls, ID?

A helicopter on a post-annual flight check touched down hard during a 180-degree autorotation, resulting in a tail boom wrinkle. The pilot continued with another pattern and performed a normal landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Nov 2007 Bell 206A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Nov 2007 involved a Bell 206A, registration N123SD, operated by Gerald Haye, at Twin Falls, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot misjudged the flare which resulted in a hard landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20071203X01890. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.