On November 21, 2007, a Bell 206A (registration N123SD) operated by Gerald Haye was involved in an aviation accident near Twin Falls, ID. 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.
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.