Accident Overview
A pilot practicing autorotation maneuvers experienced a hard landing resulting in substantial damage to the helicopter. The pilot had entered a straight-in practice autorotation, pointing the helicopter into the wind at 800 feet above ground level near midfield and above the runway. During the descent, the pilot monitored main rotor rpm and airspeed, which remained within normal ranges.
Maneuver and Descent
The pilot rolled the throttle to flight idle, lowered the collective, and gently flared the nose to set appropriate main rotor rpm and airspeed. At the bottom of the descent, the pilot flared slightly higher than usual to ensure tail boom clearance for a planned power recovery. However, the pilot stated he did not add power at that point.
Impact and Damage
Due to inadequate rotor inertia to dampen the landing, the helicopter hit hard despite full collective deflection. The main rotor blade contacted the tail boom, causing the aft portion of the tail boom and tail rotor to separate. The skids were also damaged. The pilot performed an emergency shutdown, closing the throttle and switching off the battery, generator, and fuel valve. After exiting, he secured the battery.
Post-Accident Actions
The pilot's actions after landing included an emergency shutdown and securing the battery. The helicopter sustained substantial damage but no injuries were reported.