Helicopter impact during intentional autorotation

Casualties unknown • Hazelton, IN, US

A pilot attempted an intentional autorotation to a landing site but was unable to control the descent rate before impacting the ground.

What happened

The pilot initiated an intentional autorotation toward a specific landing site at the destination airport. During the maneuver, the helicopter began to drift, making it difficult for the pilot to reach the intended touchdown point. Although the pilot intended to apply power to maintain control and reach the target, the aircraft did not respond as expected. Consequently, the pilot was unable to reduce the descent rate, resulting in the helicopter impacting the ground at the planned landing location.

The investigation

A post-accident inspection of the aircraft was conducted. The examination did not reveal any mechanical anomalies or malfunctions associated with the helicopter.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to reduce the descent rate during an intentional autorotation led to the ground impact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-12-05 Schweizer 269C accident near Hazelton, IN?

A pilot attempted an intentional autorotation to a landing site but was unable to control the descent rate before impacting the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-12-05 involved a Schweizer 269C, registration N75068, at Hazelton, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to reduce the descent rate during an intentional autorotation led to the ground impact.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20080122X00089. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…