Accident Sequence
An instructor pilot was demonstrating an extended glide autorotation to a paved landing lane. The autorotation was initiated at an altitude of approximately 740 feet above ground level (agl). Upon reaching approximately 75 feet agl, the pilot assessed that the helicopter would land short of the paved surface and applied power. However, lift was suddenly lost at that moment.
To avoid a concrete lip between the grass and the landing lane, the pilot applied aft cyclic, hoping the front of the skids would not catch on the raised pavement. The helicopter touched down on soft terrain, slid over the pavement rise, and became airborne again. It then touched down on the pavement, at which point the tail boom was severed. The helicopter slid approximately 75 feet and turned to the right about 40 degrees before coming to rest.
Wind Conditions
At the time of the accident, winds were from 180 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 18 knots. The autorotation was being performed to the south.