Accident Details
An instructor pilot was performing flight checks on a single-engine helicopter following maintenance. The flight crew consisted of the instructor pilot and a private pilot. They completed three straight-in autorotations and one 180-degree reverse direction autorotation without incident.
Sequence of Events
After setting up on downwind, the instructor initiated a second 180-degree autorotation. As the turn was nearly complete, the rotor RPM began to drop. The instructor decided to execute a power recovery go-around. Power was applied, but the helicopter continued to settle and struck the ground in a level attitude. The helicopter then rolled onto its left side, sustaining substantial damage.
Aftermath
Both occupants exited the aircraft unassisted and reported no injuries. Subsequent examination revealed no system anomalies.