Probable cause
The commercial pilot's improper flare during a simulated autorotation, which resulted in a hard landing.
NTSB analysis
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10CA255 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 6, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- West Palm Beach, Florida
- Nearest airport
- North Palm Beach County (F45)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Hughes 500
- N-number
- N5189K
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
Other records under this N-number
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.