Modern helicopters are highly reliable, but emergencies and hazardous flight conditions can still occur. Mechanical failures, pilot error, adverse weather, and improper control inputs can quickly place the helicopter in a dangerous situation. When an emergency develops, the pilot must react immediately and apply the correct recovery procedure.
A thorough understanding of the helicopter, its systems, and the aerodynamic hazards associated with rotary-wing flight is essential. By recognizing the warning signs of a developing problem, many emergencies can be avoided before they become critical. Pilots should also practice emergency procedures whenever possible so that their response becomes quick, accurate, and instinctive.
Some helicopter hazards result from unique rotor system characteristics. Conditions such as vortex ring state, retreating blade stall, dynamic rollover, mast bumping, and low rotor rpm can develop rapidly and may lead to loss of control if not recognized early. In addition, pilots must be prepared to deal with system malfunctions, poor weather, navigation problems, and emergency landings.
The following sections examine the major helicopter emergencies and hazards, along with the causes, warning signs, and recovery techniques associated with each condition.
Helicopter Emergencies and Hazards Series
1. Autorotation
Learn how to perform an emergency autorotation following an engine failure or loss of power.
View Topic →2. Vortex Ring State
Understand the causes, warning signs, and recovery procedures for settling with power.
View Topic →3. Retreating Blade Stall
Explore the conditions that lead to retreating blade stall and how to recover safely.
View Topic →4. Ground Resonance
See how severe rotor vibration can develop on the ground and how it can be prevented.
View Topic →5. Dynamic Rollover
Learn why helicopters can roll over during takeoff or landing and how to avoid it.
View Topic →6. Low-G Conditions and Mast Bumping
Understand the dangers of low-G flight and the mast bumping hazard in teetering rotor systems.
View Topic →7. Low Rotor RPM and Rotor Stall
Discover how low rotor rpm develops and why it can lead to rotor stall and loss of control.
View Topic →8. System Malfunctions
Review common failures involving the engine, rotor system, hydraulics, fuel, and electrical systems.
View Topic →9. Multiengine Emergency Operations
Examine the procedures used when one engine fails in a multiengine helicopter.
View Topic →10. Lost Procedures
Learn what to do if you become lost or disoriented during helicopter flight.
View Topic →11. VFR Flight into Instrument Meteorological Conditions
Understand the risks of entering IMC unintentionally and the procedures for surviving the encounter.
View Topic →12. Emergency Equipment and Survival Gear
Discover the equipment and survival supplies recommended for emergency situations.
View Topic →