What should be done in the event of a loss of tail rotor thrust during flight?

In the event of a loss of tail rotor thrust during flight, maintaining a speed of 70 knots and entering autorotation is the appropriate action because it helps stabilize the helicopter and manage yaw. When tail rotor thrust is compromised, the helicopter can experience a rapid yaw toward the direction of the main rotor's rotation due to the imbalance created by the loss of counteracting force.

By maintaining a significant forward speed, the pilot can reduce this yawing motion, allowing for better control of the helicopter. Entering autorotation is crucial because it allows the pilot to prepare for a controlled descent while keeping the helicopter stable. During autorotation, the blades are allowed to spin freely, and this helps the pilot effectively manage the helicopter's energy and landing path.

In contrast, performing an immediate landing could lead to a less controlled situation where the pilot might not have sufficient time to assess the situation properly, and they could risk a more dangerous outcome. Increasing throttle may not address the core issue of the loss of tail rotor thrust and could further complicate the situation. Executing a steep climb is usually not feasible in this scenario, as it could exacerbate the yaw and reduce overall control of the aircraft.