Incident Overview
An instructor pilot and a student were en route to another local airport to practice autorotations, 180-degree autorotations, and emergency procedures. The helicopter was at an altitude of approximately 1,500 feet above ground when three birds flew toward the aircraft. The instructor pilot took control of the helicopter as one of the birds collided with the retreating main rotor blade.
Landing and Damage
The pilot landed the helicopter without further incident. A post-flight examination revealed substantial damage to the main rotor blade. No other damage was reported.
Additional Details
The source does not specify the helicopter type, registration, date, operator, number of occupants, or whether any injuries occurred. The flight was conducted under visual conditions with no mention of air traffic control involvement. The instructor pilot’s statement noted the purpose of the flight was to practice autorotations and emergency procedures.