Definition
A grouped reference to the typical mistakes helicopter pilots make when performing an autorotation, the emergency descent technique used after engine failure or other power loss. Common errors include failing to lower the collective promptly to maintain rotor RPM, allowing rotor RPM to decay or overspeed, applying improper antitorque pedal input, misjudging the flare timing or height, executing the flare too aggressively or too late, failing to level the helicopter before touchdown, and mishandling the collective during the cushioning phase of landing.
Plain English
The standard list of mistakes pilots tend to make when gliding a helicopter down without engine power. Knowing them helps a pilot avoid them during practice and during a real emergency.
Context Anchor
Seen in helicopter emergency procedure training, especially when discussing engine-failure practice and autorotation technique.
Derivation
Autorotation comes from auto, meaning self, and rotation, meaning turning. In a helicopter autorotation, the rotor keeps turning because airflow moves up through it during the descent, not because the engine is driving it.
Why Pilots Care
Knowing these errors lets pilots spot and fix their own technique before it leads to a hard landing or loss of rotor speed.
Grounding Statement
During an autorotation, the pilot is managing a descending helicopter while preserving enough rotor energy and control to finish safely.
Intuition Check
Do not read “common errors” as minor classroom mistakes. In this context, they are predictable control mistakes that can directly affect the safety of the autorotation.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor reviewed the common errors during autorotations before the student's first practice attempt.
Example Sentence 2
Checking the list of common errors during autorotations helped the pilot improve his flare timing on the next practice.