Helicopter Autorotation Practice Ends in Hard Landing, Tailboom Damage

Incident Overview

A helicopter accident occurred during a training flight. The pilot receiving instruction was practicing an autorotation when the main rotor rpm decayed. The flight instructor assumed control of the helicopter and attempted to correct the low main rotor rpm. Despite the instructor's efforts, the helicopter landed hard in a nose-high attitude. The hard landing resulted in structural damage to the tailboom.

Mechanical Report

The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. The helicopter's systems were functioning as expected before the incident.

Conclusion

The accident involved a loss of main rotor rpm during autorotation practice, followed by a hard landing that caused damage to the tailboom. No mechanical issues were identified.