Summary
On November 20, 2007, a Robinson R22 BETA (N463SH) was involved in an accident near Ramona, CA. The accident resulted in 1 serious injury, with 1 person uninjured out of 2 aboard. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident to be: An excessive descent rate during a simulated 180-degree power-off autorotation, and the flight instructor's failure to initiate corrective action in time to keep the helicopter from impacting the terrain.
While demonstrating a practice 180-degree autorotation to landing, the certified flight instructor allowed the helicopter to develop an excessive descent rate and low rotor rpm, which resulted in a hard landing. Although he attempted to take corrective action, he did not do so in time to keep the helicopter from contacting the asphalt surface with sufficient force to result in substantial damage to the helicopters airframe. Examination of the helicopter revealed no mechanical anomalies.
This accident is documented in NTSB report SEA08CA032. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N463SH.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
An excessive descent rate during a simulated 180-degree power-off autorotation, and the flight instructor's failure to initiate corrective action in time to keep the helicopter from impacting the terrain.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
While demonstrating a practice 180-degree autorotation to landing, the certified flight instructor allowed the helicopter to develop an excessive descent rate and low rotor rpm, which resulted in a hard landing. Although he attempted to take corrective action, he did not do so in time to keep the helicopter from contacting the asphalt surface with sufficient force to result in substantial damage to the helicopters airframe. Examination of the helicopter revealed no mechanical anomalies.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# SEA08CA032