Probable cause
The pilot's failure to compensate for the excessive rate of descent on final approach. A contributing factor was the reported down draft.
NTSB analysis
While demonstrating a 180 degree autorotation, the helicopter encountered a downdraft resulting in an unexpected loss of altitude. The flight instructor elected not to roll power and decided to continue the autorotation to the ground. The pilot was unable to arrest the descent rate. The helicopter touched down level, bounced, and came to rest in the upright position. The flight instructor and private pilot were able to exit the helicopter normally.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DFW08TA137 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 9, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Antonio, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Stinson Muni (SSF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Schweizer 269D
- N-number
- N584PM
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.