Pilot Stated That The Engine RPM Went To Zero As Soon As He Rolled Off The Throttle To Start The Autorotation

Location: Montrose, CO Accident Number: CEN25LA003
Date & Time: October 2, 2024, 18:40 Local Registration: N656RB
Aircraft: Schweizer 269C Injuries: 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On October 2, 2024, about 1840, mountain daylight time, a Schweizer 296C helicopter, N656RB, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Montrose, Colorado. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. The helicopter was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot stated that during an autorotation demonstration, the helicopter had a complete loss of engine power. The pilot had set up the demonstration about 1,500 ft above ground level and about 60 knots indicated airspeed with hard packed gravel terrain chosen for their touchdown point. The pilot stated that the engine RPM went to zero as soon as he rolled off the throttle to start the autorotation. He attempted to restart the engine with no success, and conducted an autorotation to the predetermined touchdown area. During the ground run, the left skid collapsed, and the helicopter rolled onto its left side which resulted in substantial damage to the main rotor system, tail boom, and tail rotor system.

The wreckage was retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov