The pilot commenced an autorotation to a clearing approximately one-half mile to his left. |
This profile required the crew to make sure the autorotation RPM was within limits based on environmental conditions and aircraft gross weight. |
The pilot followed the procedure he was taught during autorotation training on that type of helicopter. |
During the autorotation the pilot stretched the glide in order to cross a creek to a level landing area. |
Many factors play a role in the ability of the pilot to carry out an autorotation without damage to the helicopter. |
I feel that there are several factors that could have contributed to the initial autorotation. |