Accident Details
On October 2, 2024, at approximately 1840 mountain daylight time, a Schweizer 296C helicopter, registration N656RB, was substantially damaged in an accident near Montrose, Colorado. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. The helicopter was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that during an autorotation demonstration, the helicopter experienced a complete loss of engine power. He had set up the demonstration at about 1,500 feet above ground level and 60 knots indicated airspeed, with a hard-packed gravel area selected as the touchdown point. The engine RPM dropped to zero as soon as he rolled off the throttle to initiate the autorotation. He attempted to restart the engine without success and performed an autorotation to the predetermined touchdown area.
During the ground run, the left skid collapsed, and the helicopter rolled onto its left side. This resulted in substantial damage to the main rotor system, tail boom, and tail rotor system.
Wreckage Examination
The wreckage was retained for further examination.