ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA near New Braunfels, TX — 2009-04-30

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate main rotor rpm during a practice autorotation. Contributing to the accident was the instructor pilot's delayed remedial action.

NTSB narrative

The instructor pilot was performing flight checks on the single-engine helicopter after maintenance had been performed. The instructor pilot and private pilot on board had completed three straight-in autorotations and one 180-degree reverse direction autorotation. The instructor set up on downwind and initiated a second 180-degree autorotation. When the turn was almost completed, the rotor RPM started to drop. The instructor decided to initiate a power recovery go-around. Power was applied but the helicopter continued to settle and hit the ground in a level attitude. The helicopter rolled on its left side and sustained substantial damage. Both occupants exited the aircraft unassisted and were not injured. No system anomalies were discovered.

NTSB coding

• Loss of lift · Autorotation
• Delayed Action

Evidence available

• 1 docket document

Docket documents1

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form

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