Incident Overview
A flight instructor and student pilot were conducting auto-rotation practice from a hover in a helicopter. The instructor reported that the student had positioned the helicopter into the wind over tall grass, approximately 1 foot above ground level.
Sequence of Events
According to the flight instructor, the student "rolled off the throttle," causing the helicopter to descend to the ground. The aircraft "appeared to bounce, moved slightly to the right and began a quick roll to the right." Subsequently, the helicopter pivoted on its right skid, and the main rotor contacted the terrain, resulting in the helicopter rolling over onto its right side.
Damage Assessment
The main rotor and windscreen sustained substantial damage during the accident.
Mechanical Status
The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.