Pilot Debrief

HUGHES 500 near West Palm Beach, FL — 2010-05-06

Final reportERA10CA255
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Date
2010-05-06
Location
West Palm Beach, FL, USA
Airport
F45
Aircraft
HUGHES 500
Registration
N5189K
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The commercial pilot's improper flare during a simulated autorotation, which resulted in a hard landing.

NTSB narrative

The certificated commercial helicopter pilot reported that he was practicing autorotations with a certificated flight instructor (CFI). The CFI stated that the first autorotation "went well," and ended with a "nice cushioned landing." During the second autorotation, the commercial pilot flared 100 feet above the ground and applied cyclic control to cushion the landing. The helicopter "settled abruptly," impacted the taxiway firmly, and bounced. A main rotor blade struck and partially severed the tail boom. No preaccident mechanical anomalies were noted with the helicopter.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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