Helicopter Dynamics
Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin
FAA Ref: FAA-S-ACS-15 Area VIII Task G (Antitorque System Failure)
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
Plate 1: Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin
Plate 2: Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin
Plate 3: Helicopter Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness (LTE) & Failure Spin
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.
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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