Helicopter Dynamics · AERO

Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin

CASA Ref: CASR Part 61 MOS Schedule 3 AD(H) 2.3 · FAA Ref: FAA-S-ACS-15 Area I Task E (Helicopter Aerodynamics)

Scenario & Physics Summary

Tail rotor drive failure vs LTE in high power, low speed out-of-wind hovering conditions causing uncommanded rapid yaw rotation.

Interactive 3D Visual Plates & Scenario Media

Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin Plate 1

Plate 1: Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin

Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin Plate 2

Plate 2: Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin

Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin Plate 3

Plate 3: Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin

Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin Plate 4

Plate 4: Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin

Aerodynamic & Operational Physics

Tail rotor balances main rotor torque reactive yaw (Newton's 3rd Law).
Loss of Tail Rotor Thrust causes violent yaw rotation opposite main rotor direction.
In forward flight: Enter autorotation immediately, shut down engine to stop torque reactive yaw.
In hover: Reduce collective, shut down engine, execute cushioning autorotation landing.

CASA & FAA Exam Gotcha Alert

Exam Trap: In complete tail rotor drive failure, engine torque MUST be removed immediately by rolling off throttle to stop the spin.

Frequently Asked Questions & Exam Explanations

What is the primary recovery action for complete tail rotor failure in cruise flight?

Immediately enter autorotation by lowering collective and reducing throttle to eliminate main rotor torque.

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