Pre 2020 Gyrocopter accidents
2019
29th Dec-2019 - Lydenburg airfield, MP, South Africa - Auto-Gyro MT-03 - ZU-WPW - The SA CAA summary states "The gyrocopter went behind the power curve and the pilot was unable to gain forward airspeed or slow down the rate of descent."
8th December 19 - Naguabo, Puerto Rico - Parsons Two Place - N446PS - The FAA ASIAS summary states "AIRCRAFT EXPERIENCED RUDDER FAILURE AND CRASHED INTO A WOODED AREA, NAGUABO, PR." injuries listed as serious, damage as substantial. The gyrocopter is said to have departed from Ceiba airport.
7-Dec-19 Millard airport ( KMLE ), Omaha, Nebraska, USA - RAF 2000 - N47EB - News
reports show the gyrocopter crashed by the perimeter fence of the
airport and show it on its side with broken rotor blades. The pilot is
said to have walked from the wreck.
UPDTE - The FAA ASIAS summary states "AIRCRAFT LANDED HARD, OMAHA, NE." - with injury listed as "serious".
Photo courtesy Omaha Fire Dept
UPDATE - The NTSB Preliminary report states "On
December 7, 2019, about 1355 central daylight time, a Rotary RAF 2000
rotorcraft-gyrocopter, N47EB, impacted terrain while landing at the
Millard Airport, Omaha, Nebraska. The pilot received serious injuries,
and the gyrocopter sustained substantial damage. The gyrocopter was
operated by and registered to a private individual under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as
a personal flight. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed for
the flight, and the local flight departed Millard Airport at an unknown
time.
The
responding Federal Aviation Administration inspector found the
gyrocopter had impacted terrain near the runway and came to rest on its
side.
The gyrocopter was retain for further examination."
News Link to gyrocopter accdient at Millard Nebraska USA
23-11-19 Toughkenamon, Pennsylvania, USA - Auto-Gyro Calidus - N772Z - The FAA ASIAS states, "AIRCRAFT LANDED, BOUNCED AND TOPPLED OVER, TOUGHKENAMON, PA."
November 19th 2019 - Chrcynno airfield, near Nasielsk, Poland - AAT Zen1 - OM-M393 - Fatal accident - the gyrocopter crashed onto the airfield killing the pilot and passenger. The gyro caught fire after impact.
Update - The PKBWL produced an extensive report Ref 5260/2019.
One blade detached shortly after take off at a height of approx 30m.
Both persons on board died in the resulting impact and fire. The Zen1
was built in 2015 - the rotor blades on the gyrocopter at the time of
the accident were not those supplied in 2015, but from an older Xenon
gyrocopter built in 2011. It is not known how many hours these older
blades had flown in total but the older Xenon had flown approx 1,700
hours. Many more details in the PKBWL report.
News link to fatal gyrocopter accident in Poland 19-11-2019
November 15th 19 - Newcastle airport ( FANC ), Kwa Zule Natal, South Africa - Auto-Gyro Calidus - ZU-RLN - The SA CAA accident summary states "The pilot reported that during take-off, the gyro experienced a high-speedblade flapping and it rolled to its left side and came to rest resting on its left side."
9-11-19 - Felcra Berhad Jejawi, near Kampung Gajah, Malaysia - ELA 07 - 9M-EBZ - The ELA gyrocopter was fitted for spraying, it crashed beside a road next to paddy fields. A police spokesman said "“The aircraft was carrying insecticide meant to be sprayed at the Felcra Seberang Perak paddy fields nearby." The pilot escaped with minor injuries.
News link to ELA gyrocopter accident in Malaysia
November 4th 2019 - Cedartown, Polk County, Georgia, USA - Tango Gyro Tango 2 - N875FV - Fatal accident - The gyrocopter crashed into a cotton field killing the pilot in unknown circumstances. News photo shows the wrecked red gyrocopter inverted in the cotton field. The gyrocopter was newly registered in September 2019.
News link to Tango 2 crash in Georgia November 2019
UPDATE - the NTSB Preliminary report states "On
November 4, 2019, about 1200 eastern standard time, an experimental
amateur-built Tango2 gyroplane, N875FV, was substantially damaged when
it impacted a field near Cedartown, Georgia. The sport pilot was fatally
injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan
was filed for the local flight, which originated from Polk County
Airport (4A4), Cedartown, Georgia, around 1130. The test flight was
conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
According
to a friend of the pilot, the pilot was performing a test flight in
order to mitigate a vibration in the gyroplane. The friend watched the
pilot add fuel to the gyroplane, check the oil, and perform part of the
preflight inspection before the friend continued working on other things
around his hangar. Then, the friend watched the gyroplane takeoff, fly
out of sight, and noted no issues with the gyroplane. He knew that the
flight test would last about 15 minutes, so after 30 minutes had passed,
he alerted authorities and went to look for the pilot. The wreckage was
located later that day around 1330.
According
to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airmen records, the pilot held
a sport pilot certificate with endorsements for gyroplane and
weight-shift control land. He did not possess an FAA medical
certificate, nor was he required to have one. According to a friend of
the pilot, he had about 200-300 hours of flight time in the same make
and model as the accident gyroplane.
The
two-seat tandem, fixed tricycle gear, composite gyroplane was assembled
from a kit and issued an FAA experimental airworthiness certificate in
2019. It was powered by a Yamaha 8GL-01, 130-horsepower engine, equipped
with an Aero Prop three-blade, fixed pitch, composite pusher propeller
and a two-blade aluminum rotor. Review of the maintenance records
revealed that the gyroplane's most recent condition inspection was
completed on October 20, 2019. At that time, the airframe and engine had
accumulated 0 total hours of operation. The hobbs meter was located in
the wreckage and noted 4.8 hours of total time.
The
1335 recorded weather observation at Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport
(PUJ), Dallas, Georgia, which was about 14 miles to the southeast of
the accident location, included wind from 120° at 8 knots, visibility 10
miles, clear skies, temperature 13° C, dew point 03° C; and an
altimeter setting of 30.20 inches of mercury.
The
main wreckage was located in a cotton field, at an elevation of 853 ft
above mean sea level. The gyroplane impacted the field, and then came to
rest inverted about 15 ft beyond the initial impact point. The debris
path was oriented on about a 270° magnetic heading. All major components
of the gyroplane were located in the vicinity of the main wreckage.
There was no evidence of post impact fire and an odor of fuel was noted
at the accident site.
The
forward right section of the fuselage was impact damaged and crushed.
The windscreens were impact separated and the pieces were located in the
vicinity of the main wreckage. The rudder remained attached to the
fuselage and the right side was impact damaged. Rudder control
continuity was confirmed from the rudder to the pedals in the cockpit.
The cyclic controls remained attached to their respective attach points
in the cockpit. The walking beam remained attached along the keel and
was bent. Cyclic control continuity was confirmed from the cockpit
control to the main rotor head. Throttle control continuity was
confirmed from the throttle control in the cockpit to the engine.
The
main rotor mast was impact damaged and bent aft. The main rotor would
rotate 360° when moved by hand and the pitch and roll pivot bolts were
secure. The main rotor drive gear where the main rotor brake contacted
the gear was examined and minor wear was noted. One of the main rotor
blades was impact separated and located about 15 ft from the main
wreckage and the cap was impact separated. The separated blade exhibited
impact damage, was bent in the aft direction, and rotational scoring
was noted. The other rotor blade remained partially attached to the main
rotor head. It was bent in the positive direction, exhibited rotational
scoring, the cap remained attached, and was partially bent aft. The two
shims that were added to each blade to reduce the pitch angle of the
main rotor blades were located in the vicinity of the wreckage.
The
engine remained attached to the airframe through all engine mounts. All
3 spark plugs were removed, exhibited normal wear, and no anomalies
were noted. The throttle body was examined and no anomalies were noted.
The cylinders were examined with a lighted boroscope and no anomalies
were noted. The valve cover was removed to facilitate examination. The
camshafts were examined with no anomalies noted. In addition, the valve
timing chain was not seated on the two camshaft gears. A section of the
valve cover that covered the camshaft gears was impact separated and
located in the vicinity of the main wreckage. Crankshaft continuity was
confirmed when the No. 3 piston was pushed down and the propeller moved.
The oil filter was removed from the engine, examined, and no anomalies
were noted. Coolant was noted in the radiator. Fuel was noted in the
fuel rail. The fuel injectors were removed, examined, and were not
obstructed.
All
3 propeller blades remained attached to the propeller hub. Propeller
blade A was fractured but remained attached to the hub. The leading and
trailing edge of the blade were split. Leading edge damage was also
noted on the blade. Blade B remained attached to the hub and no
anomalies were noted. Blade C remained attached to the hub and the
leading edge exhibited damage. The propeller would rotate when moved by
hand. In addition, the propeller gear clutch would rotate when the
propeller was rotated by hand.
The
vibration tester unit that was being used by the pilot during the
flight was not located. However, the cables and sensors remained
attached to the airframe and rotor head. Two of the three connection
points remained intact and the third connection point was separated. In
addition, the excess cable was located in the aft seat.
Novem 3rd 2019 - Echuca aerodrome, Victoria, Australia - gyrocopter type unknown - gyrocopter registration unknown - The ATSB summary states "During take-off, the gyrocopter struck a fence resulting in substantial damage" - the flight is described as "Test / Ferry"
ATSB Ref 201908195
21st Oct 2019 - Brooksville airport ( KBKV ), Florida, USA - Silverlight Aviation AR-1 - N147AR - The FAA ASIAS summary states "AIRCRAFT CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF WHEN ROTAR STRUCK THE RUDDER, BROOKSVILLE, FL."
October 17th 2019 - Torreilles, near Perpignan, France - ELA 07 - 66-QN - Fatal accident. The
gyrocopter crashed and caught fire shortly after departing the airfield
at Torreilles, killing the pilot who was on his first solo flight.
News reports say the pilot had completed 20 hours of training.
News link to fatal ELA 07 accident in France October 2019
12-October-2019 - Near Montgomery, Texas, USA - Autogyro MTOsport - N498AG
- The gyrocopter hit trees at approx 60 feet as it took off from a
field and fell down through the branches. The pilot and passenger
escaped with minor injuries.
The NTSB Preliminary report states " On
October 12, 2019, about 1530 central daylight time, an AutoGyro GmbH
MTO Sport autogyro, N498AG, impacted trees during takeoff from a remote
field near Montgomery, Texas. The private pilot sustained serious
injuries and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The autogyro
sustained substantial damage. The autogyro was registered to and
operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part
91 as a personal flight. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed
at the time of the accident, and no flight plan was filed. The flight
originated from a private ranch near Hempstead, Texas, about 1450.
The
pilot reported that while inflight, his electronic tablet he was
utilizing for navigation failed. The pilot decided to land to a field
and troubleshoot the electronic tablet. After troubleshooting, the pilot
departed from the field to the northwest. During the takeoff through an
opening of trees, the pilot realized that there was not adequate
obstacle clearance. He turned to the south and impacted trees. After
impacting trees, the autogyro came to rest in a nose-down profile on the
left side of the fuselage as shown below in figure 1. The pilot and
passenger were able to egress from the wreckage without further
incident.""
The NTSB Factual report concludes - "In the safety recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot reported that the accident could have been prevented by "measuring the length of the field before taking off.""
The NTSB Factual report concludes - "In the safety recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot reported that the accident could have been prevented by "measuring the length of the field before taking off.""
Oct 5th 2019 - Dublin airfield, Texas, USA - Tango 2 - N8445P - FAA ASIAS states "AIRCRAFT KNOCKED ONTO SIDE BY WIND GUST WHILE LANDING, DUBLIN, TX. - injuries listed as none, damage as substantial
3-10-19 - Mosaic, near Fort Meade, Polk County, Florida, USA - Silverlight AR-1 American Ranger - N463JW - The gyrocopter made a forced landing into a remote overgrown swampy area. Photos show some damage to the rotor blades. A Police helicopter ( OH-58 N911RW ) crashed during an attempt to rescue the gyro pilot. Both pilots were later rescued by a Coastguard helicopter.
News link to AR-1 gyrocopter accident Florida 3.10.19
UPDATE - The NTSB Preliminary report states " On
October 3, 2019, about 1130 eastern daylight time, an experimental
amateur-built AR-1 gyroplane, N463JW, was substantially damaged during a
forced landing near Fort Meade, Florida. The student pilot was
uninjured. The gyroplane was registered to and operated by Jeff's
Gyroplanes, LLC under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part
91 as a solo instructional flight. Visual meteorological conditions
prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the flight that departed
Tampa North Aero Park (X39), Tampa, Florida about 1030, and was destined
for Sebring Regional Airport (SEF), Sebring, Florida.
The
pilot reported that he was flying for about 60 minutes and was
southeast of Tampa enroute to SEF, when he "heard a loud bang" from the
engine. He increased power but there was no response from the engine. He
attempted to troubleshoot the problem but was unsuccessful in his
attempt to restore power. As the gyroplane descended through 900 ft mean
sea level, he elected to land in a tall grass field that appeared to be
free of obstructions. The approach was normal, but during the landing
flare, the gyroplane struck tall grass reeds then settled into deep mud
as it landed and tilted to the side which allowed the rotor blades to
impact the ground.
Examination
of the gyroplane by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector
revealed the mast beam, rotor blades, propeller and fuselage were
damaged.
The
pilot possessed a student pilot certificate, and according to the FAA
Inspector, he had the appropriate endorsements for the solo
cross-country flight."
Sept 22nd 2019 - Oberlahr, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - D-MAVG - Fatal accident - The gyrocopter hit electricity power wires before crashing into a small river. The pilot and passenger were both killed in this accident. The BFU summary states - "The collision with the 3-wire overhead line occurred at a height of around 20 m above the valley floor of the Wied low mountain range.
Photo courtesy BFU report
News link to fatal MTOsport accident in Germany 22-9-19
BFU Ref - BFU19-1345-3X
21-9-19 Roclincourt airfield, near Arras, France - Auto-Gyro Calidus - 80-AFC - The gyrocopter with a pilot and passenger crashed during take off, rolling on to its left side. The passenger was taken to hospital with minor injuries. A cross wind is reported to having been blowing.
News link to Calidus accident in France 21.9.19
Sept 15th 2019 - San Diego, California, USA - Silverlight AR-1 - N233G - The FAA ASIAS summary states "AIRCRAFT LOST POWER AFTER TAKEOFF AND LANDED IN THE GRASS, SAN DIEGO, CA during take off."
8th September 19 - Vairé near Sables d'Olonne, Vendee, France - Magni M-14 Scout - 85-AFW - Just after take off, at a height of approx 75m the gyrocopter developed engine problems. The pilot turned to return but the gyrocopter struck trees and a ditch. The pilot and his passenger ( his son ) received some injurues. The gyrocopter appears written off.
1st September 2020 - Mentone airfield, Indiana, USA - Gyro Technic VX-1 - N196GT - The FAA ASIAS summary report states "AIRCRAFT DAMAGE INCURRED DUE TO HARD LANDING" - injuries none, damage unknown
August -31st-2019 - Klyazma reservoir near Moscow, Russia - Tango Gyro Tango 2 - RA-0674A - Fatal Accident - The Russian IAC states "On
August 31, 2019, in the district of the Dolgoprudny urban district of
the Moscow region of the Klyazma reservoir, an accident occurred with a
autogyro TANGO-2 RA-0674A, owned by a private person. According to
available information, there was a collision with the transmission lines
with a subsequent drop into the Klyazma reservoir. Pilot and passenger
died.
26-8-19 - Chester, Connecticut, USA - Shimarov Bushgyro - N775SS - The FAA ASIAS summary states "AIRCRAFT LOST CONTROL WHILE TAXIING ON THE RUNWAY AND FLIPPED ON ITS SIDE, CHESTER, CT"
August 21st 2019 - Cherepovets district, Russia - Tango Gyro Tango 2 - registration unknown - Fatal Accident - The Russian IAC states "in the Cherepovets district of the Vologda region duing the flight, the aircraft collided with a power line, fell into a lake and sank" The pilot was killed in the accident.
19-8-19 - Viroqua, Wisconsin, USA - SportCopter Vortex - N634SC - Fatal Accident - The FAA SIAS initial report states - "AIRCRAFT CRASHED UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES IN A FIELD, VIROQUA, WI."
Update - Local media name the pilot as Jack Wuolle.
News link to fatal SportCopter Vortex accident in Wisconsin
27.8.19 Update - The Preliminary NTSB report now published states "On
August 19, 2019, about 1834 Central daylight time, an experimental
light sport, Sport Copter Vortex gyrocopter, N634SC, impacted a corn
field about .31 miles west of the departure end of runway 29 at Viroqua
Municipal Airport (Y51) Viroqua, Wisconsin. The gyrocopter was owned and
operated by the pilot as a visual flight rules (VFR) flight under the
provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations
Part 91 when the accident occurred. The non-certificated pilot was
fatally injured and the gyrocopter was destroyed by the impact and
post-crash fire. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no
flight plan had been filed. The flight departed Y51 about 1830.
According
to a family member, the purpose of the flight was to practice taxi
operations and become familiar with the handling characteristics of the
aircraft. The reason the gyrocopter took off is unknown.
Witnesses
at the airport and nearby stated that, after becoming airborne, the
engine appeared to lose all power. None of the witnesses heard pops or
bangs, and all described the engine noise as just stopping. The
gyrocopter then descended rapidly into a corn field and shortly
thereafter, smoke was observed rising from the field. First responders
arrived to find the airplane fully engulfed in fire.
The debris field extended about 65 ft along a magnetic heading of 336°.
The gyrocopter was equipped with a Rotax 582 series engine."
11th July 19 - Hawley airport, Minnesota, USA - Silverlight AR-1 American Ranger - N14968 - Fatal Accident - the aircraft said to be a gyrocopter crashed on approach to Hawley airport and caught fire. The pilot was killed in the accident. A bystander received hand injuries as they pulled the pilot from the wreckage.
The FAA ASIAS states, "CRASHED UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES .14NM SOUTH OF RWY 34 (04Y)."
UPDATE 16-7-19 - The NTSB Preliminary report states "On
July 11, 2019, about 1230 central daylight time, a Gibb AR-1, N14968,
impacted terrain 300 ft from, and slightly to the right of, the
departure end of runway 16 at the Hawley Municipal Airport (04Y),
Hawley, Minnesota. The private pilot was fatally injured. The gyroplane
was destroyed by impact forces and a post-impact fire. The gyroplane was
registered to and operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title
14 Code of Federal Regulations Part
91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions existed at
the accident site at the time of the accident, and no flight plan had
been filed. The flight originated from 04Y at an undetermined time.
A
passerby driving eastbound on Highway 10 just south of the runway saw
the gyroplane descend nose down and impact the ground. A fire erupted
immediately. The passerby stopped, ran to the accident site, and pulled
the pilot from the burning wreckage. The passerby sustained serious
burns to his hands.
The
on-scene investigation revealed the gyroplane struck the ground on a
magnetic heading of 175°. There was a 30-ft ground scar from the impact
point to the main body of wreckage. All of the wreckage was contained
within a 50-ft perimeter. All components were accounted for, including
both main rotor blades, the engine, and all 3 blades of the pusher-type
propeller. The airspeed and vertical speed indicators registered 110 mph
and 910 fpm down, respectively. The altimeter and Kollsman window
registered 1,580 ft and 30.08 inches of mercury, respectively."
News link to gyrocopter accident in Minnesota 11-7-19
News link to gyro accident in Minnesota 11-7-19
20.6.19 - Jezi orowskie, near Elk, Poland - ELA 07 - SP-X.......... - Local news media report the gyrocopter hit the roof of a house before falling to the ground. The pilot and passenger are said to have decamped from the scene. Police later detained the pilot who then failed a blood alcohol test.
photo courtesy Elk Police Dept
News link to ELA accident in Poland June 2019
18-6-19 - Nephi, Utah, USA - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - N882M - The FAA ASIAS reports, "CRASHED UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES", injuries to pilot unknown, damage to gyro minor.
Local news media report ".............The pilot said he was out practicing touch-and-gos, and was 60 to 80 feet in the air when he lost power. He had issues with the gyrocopter, and he landed hard. The gyrocopter went onto its side." The 66 year old pilot is said to have non life threatening injuries.
photo courtesy Nephi City Police
Link to News report for Cavalon accident at Nephi Uthan 18-6-19
June 15th 2019 - Cunewalde, near Bautzen, Germany - Auto-Gyro Calidus - D-MCEY - Local media report the gyrocopter departed from Gorlitz. During the flight the engine failed, the pilot made an emergency landing in a wheat field. The pilot and passenger were unhurt. The reason for the engine failure is unknown - the gyrocopter appear to have some damage to the rudder.
News link to Calidus accident in Germany 15-6-19
30th May 2019 - Victoria River near Timber Creek, Northern Territory, Australia - Gyrocopter type unknown - Gyrocopter registration unknown - Fatal accident - Local media report that the gyrocopter is believed to have hit wires before crashing into the Victoria River, killing the pilot.
News report link to fatal gyrocopter accident in Northern Territory May 2019
May 29th 2019 - Near Drayton Valley, Alberta, Canada - RAF 2000 GTXEJ - C-GERF - The gyrocopter crashed during a take off apparently tipping over on rough ground.
15.5.19 Nephi airfield, Utah, USA - Sparrow Hawk - N50512 - The FAA ASIAS summary simply states "CRASHED DUE TO UNK CIRCUMSTANCES" during taxying - injuries unknown and damage unknown.
May 7th 2019 - Pokhara airfield, Nepal - DTA J-Ro - 9N-AMK - The gyrocopter is said to have landed long and hit the airfield boundary fence damaging the rotor blades, mast and cockpit windscreen. The gyrocopter was operating a tourist sightseeing flight, neither the pilot nor passenger are reported injured.
News link to DTA J-Ro accident in Nepal May 2019
4-5-19 - New Caney, Texas, USA - Silverlight AR-1 American Ranger - N925AG - The FAA ASIAS summary states "STRUCK TREE WHILE TURNING TO AVOID MOBILE HOME PARK DURING EMERGENCY LANDING" injury to pilot and damage to gyrocopter is unknown
Local media report "He was on the return trip to Anahuac when he lost the engine to his gyrocopter at 1500 feet. He attempted an autorotation into a church parking lot but saw he was heading for a mobile home community and overcorrected causing him to crash in front of Embrace Fellowship Church on Antique Lane just off US 59. in New Caney."
Image of AR-1 N925AG courtesy East Montgomery Fire Dept
Link to local news report for AR-1 accident in Texas
30th April 19 - Cobden, Illinois, USA - Tango 2 - N857UV - The FAA ASIAS summary states "CRASHED LANDED ON A PRIVATE STRIP" with substantial damage to the gyrocopter and no injuries to the pilot
22-4-19 - San Diego, California, US - Little Wing - N333NA - The FAA ASIAS summary states prop strike during landing - minor damage.
April 20th 2019 - Near Mariahalom, Hungary - Auto-Gyro MT-03 - HA-GYA - Fatal accident - the gyrocopter is said to have crashed after take off killing the pilot. A TV news video shows a very badly damaged wreck in an undulating field.
News link to fatal gyrocopter accident in Hungary April 2019
Second news link to fatal gyro accident in Hungary April 2019
April 15 2019 - Near Upington, NC, South Africa - RAF 2000 GTX SE FI - ZU-EGG - The SAA CA accident summary states "A pilot on-board a Gyrocopter was executing crop spraying when the gyro ran out of fuel. The pilot executed a precautionary landing on the gravel road next to the area he was crop spraying."
April 11th 19 - Shahid Sedaghat Kordan station in Karaj, Iran - ELA 07 ( local build ) - EP-1296 - Fatal - a summary of the accident report states "During low altitude operation rotor blade hit a witness and he was fatally injured the gyrocopter"
9th April 2019 - Bundoo station, east of Charleville, Queensland, Australia - Gyrocopter type unknown - Gyrocopter registration unknown - Fatal accident - Local media report the gyrocopter came down in vegetation on the cattle station killing the pilot.
Link to news report of fatal gyrocopter accident in Queensland April 2019
March 27 2019 - Goolwa airfield, South Australia, Australia - ELA 09 Drover - G-4007 - Local media report the ELA gyrocopter hit a fence line before crashing. Photos show the damaged gyrocopter ended up beside a tree trunk with a low chain fence visible in the background. The pilot is said to have escaped with minor injuries.
News Link to ELA 09 Drover accident March 2019
March 24th 2019 - Tannheim airfield, Germany - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - Registration unknown - Local media report the gyrocopter crashed during take off, rolling onto its side. The pilot escaped with minor injuries.
News link to Cavalon accident at Tannheim March 2019
23-3-19 - Wola Krakowiańska, near Pruszkow, Poland - DTA J-Ro 914 - F-JBEW - Local media suggest the gyrocopter had a hard landing near a farm. A photo shows a broken mast and broken propeller blades. The pilot and passenger received minor injuries. The PKBWL report shows the flight lasted just three minutes from take off - the variable speed propeller was adjusted incorrectly and the gyro failed to climb and lost speed in flight. The wreckage was removed from the accident site by the pilot before notifying the authorities.
Photo courtesy PKBWL
Link to news report of DTA J-Ro accident in Poland
PKBWL accident report 890/19
March 17th 2019 - Sövde airfield, Sweden - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - SE-VRI - Local media report that the gyrocopter crashed when about to land, dropping the final 7m onto the runway - the gyrocopter ended up on its side. The pilot was able to walk away.
News Link to MTOsport accident in Sweden in March 2019
20th Feb 2019 - Groblersdal ( Grobbies), MP, South Africa - Auto-Gyro MT-03 - ZU-ENZ - The gyrocopter crashed whilst performing aerial application crashing into fruit trees. The pilot survived.
Update - The SAA accident summary states "It was reported that the aircraft collided with electrical wires whilst it was crop spraying."
Feb 19th 2019 - Iznájar reservoir, Cordoba, Spain - ELA 07 - EC-GN9 - Fatal - The gyrocopter crashed and sank in a reservoir, the pilot was killed. Local news media suggests the gyrocopter hit power lines near a bridge across the reservoir before plunging into the deep water killing the 55 year old pilot.
Ref ULM A-004/2019
News link to ELA 07 accident near Cordoba Feb 2019
6th February 2019 - Busselton, Capel, Western Australia, Australia - TAG Titanium Explorer - G-565 - FATAL - The TAG gyrocopter crashed into the shoreline waves near Capel south of Perth. Local news report a police spokesman as stating ""We've just had a witness say they observed the gyroplane was about 200 metres up into the air and it crashed into the water. That's all we've got so far." - the pilot and passenger were killed in the accident.
News photos show a modern tandem style gyrocopter painted light brown and green in the sea by the shore.
Link to news report for gyrocopter accident at Busselton in Western Australia
Update - Link to further news report for fatal gyrocopter accident at Busselton
Update 30.3.19 - ASRA issued the following Directive SD 2019 01 - "Directive. With immediate effect, all gyroplanes manufactured by the Titanium Aircraft Group (TAG) are grounded until further notice."
Link to ASRA Safety Directive 2019 01 here
Update 30.4.19 - ATSB have logged this fatal accident with Ref 201900624 - they have published a short summary as follows ""During cruise, the blades were observed to detach from the gyrocopter which subsequently collided with terrain. The two occupants were fatally injured and the gyrocopter was destroyed.""
25-1-19 - Dannevirke airfield, New Zealand - Bensen B8M type - ZK-RDS - local news reports the gyrocopter crashed near the airfield with the gyro catching fire. The pilot suffered burns and was airlifted to Palmerston hospital. Local news reports state "It just fell out of the sky".
Link to local news report of gyrocopter accident at Dannevirke
UPDATE - A summary report from the NZ CAA states "During take-off roll, the pilot noticed that the engine was not producing full power, He continued with the take-off as he thought that it may have been a fouled spark plug causing the reduced RPM which would eventually clear. The gyrocopter climbed to approximately 50 feet along the runway but the engine continued to lose power. The pilot attempted to turn back to the runway but underestimated the effect of the prevailing wind when he turned downwind. After a further turn to avoid a fence, the gyrocopter landed heavily and rolled on its side. During the ground impact, the fuel tank ruptured spraying fuel on the pilot's legs. The fuel then ignited resulting in severe burns to the pilot. First responders were immediately on hand to assist the pilot who was then taken to hospital. ""
January 9th 2019 - Nephi, Utah, USA - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - N117PV - The FAA ASIAS summary states "LOST CONTROL ON TAKEOFF" -
2018
24th December 2018 - Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia - Rosco Trainer - unknown gyrocopter registration - The
gyrocopter is understood to have become inadvertently airborne during a
high speed taxying and balance run. The gyrocopter climbed to approx
80ft before crashing to the ground - the pilot was taken to hospital
with major injuries.
December 15th 2018 - Anahuac, Texas, USA - Silverlight Aviation AR-1 American Ranger - N923DJ - the
FAA ASIAS summary states "GYROCOPTER LANDED HARD STRIKING PROP AND
DAMAGING ROTOR" - No injuries reported with damage sustained to gyro
listed as substantial
4th Dec 2018 - Pointe des Châteaux, Guadeloupe, Caribbean ( Dept 971 ) - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - registration unknown ( 27-...... ? ) - The gyrocopter crashed due to unknown reasons into overgrown bushes - the pilot and passenger received minor injuries.
News link to gyrocopter accident in Guadeloupe
Nov-21-18 - Kanab, Utah, USA - ELA 10 Eclipse - N512EA - The FAA ASIAS summary reports "AFTER LANDING ON A ROAD, AIRCRAFT HIT A BUSH AND TIPPED OVER DURING TAXI FOR TAKEOFF."
18 - 11 - 18 - Moree, New South Wales, Australia - unknown
gyrocopter type - unknown gyrocopter registration - Fatal accident - Local
police report the following, ""Police are investigating the
circumstances surrounding the death of a man following a gyrocopter
crash near Moree. About 1.30pm (Sunday 18 November 2018), emergency
services were
called to a property on Mount Jerrybang Road, Moree, after reports a
recreational light aircraft crashed. Police from New England Police
District attended and located the body of a 50-year-old man. There were
no other passengers onboard. Initial inquiries indicate the gyrocopter
crashed into a combine harvester at the property. The Australian Sports
Rotorcraft Association and Australian Transport Safety Bureau has been
notified of the incident.""
Oct 31 2018 - Spring Hill, near Orange regional airport, New South
Wales, Australia - TAG Titanium Explorer - G-0014 - Fatal accident -
The gyrocopter crashed whilst doing training circuits and touch and
goes at Orange regional airport killing the instructor and the student
pilot.
Local news reports "Superintendent Taylor said emergency crews were on the scene within five or six minutes. “The
aircraft was still on fire, there was a small grass fire around it and
there were a couple of parts of the gyrocopter which were approximately
200 metres away. The fire was put out by the fire brigade.” The
reason there were two sites of wreckage formed part of the probe on
Thursday when investigators returned to the crash scene.
Following the accident ASRA issued a Safety Directive ( 2018-01 ) which states "A
preliminary investigation into the circumstances surrounding the
accident has been completed by Officers from the Australian Sport
Rotorcraft Association (ASRA). The investigation is continuing. ASRA
Officers completed an inspection of the accident gyroplane and reported
that the gyroplane was fitted with an optional two (2) piece folding
mast.There was evidence to support that the cheek plates locking the
folding mast in the flight position,had failed. This possibility
represents a major risk to flight safety. DIRECTIVE: With immediate
effect, all Titanium Autogyro (TAG) gyroplanes that are fitted with a
folding mast option are grounded until further notice."
News link to fatal gyrocopter accident in Australia 31-10-18
UPDATE - ATSB published the following "On 31 October 2018, a TAG Aviation Titanium Explorer autogyro
experienced an inflight separation of the upper portion of the rotor
mast and subsequently collided with terrain near Orange Aerodrome, NSW.
The autogyro was destroyed by the post impact fire and both occupants
were fatally injured.
The Australian Sports Rotorcraft Association has requested assistance
from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) in examining
fractured rotor mast components. The purpose of this examination is to
identify factors that contributed to the mast separation and subsequent
collision with terrain." AE-2018-073
UPDATE July 2019 - a further update from ASRA states - "ASRA Statement 25th July 2019. RE: TAG Gyroplane rotors fitted with steel balance rods Orange Police have advised ASRA that new evidence has become available regarding the TAG Gyroplane accident that occurred near Orange Airport on the 31stOctober2018. Orange Police and the ASRA investigative team have now examined the new evidence and with permission from the Coroner and Police, ASRA is permitted torelease the following information;There is a reallikelihood that the gyroplane was operating normally in the circuit at Orange airport when an internal balance rod embedded within the leading edge of one of the rotor blades,ejected from the blade under centrifugal force. If this indeed was the case, then the resulting massive rotor imbalance would have been such as to induce structural failure in the folding mast (original-design SP01) side-plate junction.The investigation is continuing at this time."
30-October-2018 - Sebring, Florida, USA - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - N198LT - Fatal accident
- The gyrocopter crashed into a mobile home park killing the pilot and
passenger. Local media name the pilot as Chris Lord and the passenger as
Christopher Brugger. One person on the ground received minor injuries.
Cavalon N198LT - Photo courtesy- Highlands County Sheriff's Office
News reports state - "Pilot Chris Lord was heard making a mayday call just before crashing with his friend Dr. Christopher Brugger into a mobile home on Caribbean Road in the Sebring Falls Retirement subdivision. Lord sent out a mayday call Tuesday afternoon shortly before 2:50 p.m.
News link to fatal gyrocopter accident at Sebring, FL
UPDATE May 2020 - The NTSB Factual Report for Cavalon N198LT Sebring - this is extensive and is published below
On
October 30, 2018, about 1448 eastern daylight time, an experimental
amateur-built AutoGyro Cavalon gyroplane, N198LT, was destroyed during
collision with a power pole, wires, terrain, a residence and a
post-crash fire following a forced landing in Sebring, Florida. The
commercial pilot and the pilot-rated passenger were fatally injured.
Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed
for the flight which departed Sebring Regional Airport (SEF) about 1440
and was destined for Manatee Airport (48X), Palmetto, Florida. The
personal flight was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
The purpose of the accident flight was for the pilot to take the passenger back to his home airport. Witnesses stated the pilot flew the accident gyroplane earlier in the day for about 2 hours, serviced it with fuel, then he and the passenger departed on the accident flight.
Radar information from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revealed that a radar target identified as the accident gyroplane was acquired at 500 ft, and its track depicted a climb to about 1,000 ft and a cruise profile along a heading of about 280°. The radar track traversed the southern border of Lake Jackson in Sebring. About 1446, the radar data depicted that the gyroplane began a descent from about 1,000 ft over the southwestern shore of the lake. The descent followed the shoreline to the northwest, and the radar target disappeared at 900 ft, at which time the gyroplane's groundspeed was 90 knots and its ground track was about 0.4 mile southeast of the accident site. From where the descent began, a golf course was located about 25° and 0.5 mile to the left of the gyroplane's ground track.
SEF was not tower-controlled, but a commercial website that monitored the common traffic advisory frequency recorded a mayday call from the gyroplane at 1448. During the next 18 seconds, part of the gyroplane's registration number and a second mayday call were transmitted before the sounds associated with impact were heard. During the audible portions of the transmissions, sounds consistent with an engine increasing and decreasing in rpm were heard.
A witness who was driving southbound on the highway parallel to the shoreline of the lake stated that the gyroplane was traveling northwest about 300 ft above ground level "with very little airspeed" and appeared to be turning to the east. The gyroplane then "entered an autorotation," and, when it had descended to about 150 ft, "the nose of the aircraft dropped immediately turning toward [the] east then back toward the north." The gyroplane descended from the witness's view; afterward, he saw a large fireball.
The purpose of the accident flight was for the pilot to take the passenger back to his home airport. Witnesses stated the pilot flew the accident gyroplane earlier in the day for about 2 hours, serviced it with fuel, then he and the passenger departed on the accident flight.
Radar information from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revealed that a radar target identified as the accident gyroplane was acquired at 500 ft, and its track depicted a climb to about 1,000 ft and a cruise profile along a heading of about 280°. The radar track traversed the southern border of Lake Jackson in Sebring. About 1446, the radar data depicted that the gyroplane began a descent from about 1,000 ft over the southwestern shore of the lake. The descent followed the shoreline to the northwest, and the radar target disappeared at 900 ft, at which time the gyroplane's groundspeed was 90 knots and its ground track was about 0.4 mile southeast of the accident site. From where the descent began, a golf course was located about 25° and 0.5 mile to the left of the gyroplane's ground track.
SEF was not tower-controlled, but a commercial website that monitored the common traffic advisory frequency recorded a mayday call from the gyroplane at 1448. During the next 18 seconds, part of the gyroplane's registration number and a second mayday call were transmitted before the sounds associated with impact were heard. During the audible portions of the transmissions, sounds consistent with an engine increasing and decreasing in rpm were heard.
A witness who was driving southbound on the highway parallel to the shoreline of the lake stated that the gyroplane was traveling northwest about 300 ft above ground level "with very little airspeed" and appeared to be turning to the east. The gyroplane then "entered an autorotation," and, when it had descended to about 150 ft, "the nose of the aircraft dropped immediately turning toward [the] east then back toward the north." The gyroplane descended from the witness's view; afterward, he saw a large fireball.
The pilot held a commercial pilot
certificate with a rating for rotorcraft-gyroplane. He held a private
pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single engine land and
instrument airplane. His most-recent FAA 2nd class medical certificate
was issued August 25, 2017. A review of the pilot's FAA Examiner
Designation and Qualification Record revealed he had accrued 4,010 total
hours of flight experience, 2,715 hours of which were in "rotortype"
aircraft.
According
to FAA records, the gyroplane's airworthiness certificate was issued
August 17, 2017. Airframe logbooks were not recovered, but photographs
of maintenance entries revealed the most recent condition inspection was
completed October 4, 2018 at 16.6 total aircraft hours.
Postaccident interviews, e-mails, and collected documents revealed that the owner/builder purchased the gyroplane kit from the German kit manufacturer through AutoGyro USA, Stevensville, Maryland, along with a "build-assist" agreement with Cloud9 Helicopters, West Palm Beach, Florida, an independent dealer of AutoGyro USA products. The owner/builder had no experience building or flying aircraft of any kind. His intention was to build the gyroplane and then learn to fly it. Cloud9 Helicopters agreed to perform the build-assist in exchange for 75 flight hours in the completed gyroplane in order to demonstrate the product to prospective customers for future sales.
After an experienced factory mechanic could not be arranged by the CEO of AutoGyro USA, Cloud9 Helicopters employed a mechanic who had not previously assembled an AutoGyro product, which conservatively required 3 weeks for assembly by an experienced builder. Later, an experienced AutoGyro builder, who could provide only one week's help was brought in to temporarily assist with building efforts. Upon arrival, the experienced builder directed that the gyroplane be disassembled because components had been installed incorrectly and in the wrong sequence. He found all the parts, components, and hardware had arrived with the kit, but they were packaged haphazardly, and considerable time was expended as the contents of the boxes were inventoried and organized for assembly. Further, common consumables (adhesives, lubricants, etc.) were not on hand and had to be purchased. According to the owner/builder, he "spent a lot of time going to Home Depot." When asked about his involvement with the construction of the gyroplane he said, "I put on stickers and wheel covers, nothing critical."
After the airworthiness certificate was issued, the gyroplane was test flown for the phase one testing period (40 hours). The test pilot hired to complete the flight testing stated that the test plan was modeled after FAA Advisory Circular 90-89A, Amateur-Built Aircraft and Ultralight Flight Testing Handbook. As part of the plan, the test pilot performed engine run-ups, system checks (pre-rotator, etc), high-speed taxi tests and short "hops" over the runway about 20 ft above the ground. The test pilot stated that during the testing the cyclic control exhibited a "sharp left pull" and that he explained the issue to maintenance personnel. The test pilot also stated that multiple exchanges with maintenance personnel and AutoGyro USA failed to resolve the issue. The test pilot further stated that he "grounded" the gyroplane at that time due to "improperly rigged flight controls" and indicated that he would not fly the gyroplane again until it was fixed. At the time that the test pilot ceased the test plan, the gyroplane had accrued 16.6 hours.
According to the owner/builder, the CEO of AutoGyro USA and the president of Cloud9 Helicopters were "not available" in the months following to complete the fly-off. In March 2018, the CEO of AutoGyro USA resigned his position and went to work for a competing gyroplane manufacturer, and Cloud9 helicopters became an independent dealer for the same manufacturer. Cloud9 Helicopters no longer had incentive to complete the project and the owner/builder had lost interest, so in September 2018, the owner/builder contacted AutoGyro USA to broker the sale of his gyroplane. Cloud9 Helicopters agreed to complete the condition inspection and the phase one flight testing in advance of an airshow that began November 1, 2018. At the time the agreement was made, which was on or about September 18th, 2018, the gyroplane had not accrued any additional flight hours since the previous flight testing had ceased. According to the President of Cloud9 Helicopters, he and 3 other pilots completed the flight tests between October 4 and 29, 2018.
On October 29, 2018, the accident pilot, who was the chief operating officer for AutoGyro USA, took possession of the gyroplane from Cloud9 Helicopters. His inspection of the accident gyroplane and its logbooks revealed that the hobbs meter displayed exactly 40.0 hours, the carburetors leaked, and completion of the 40-hour flight test period had not been documented in the maintenance logs. The president of Cloud9 Helicopters then made the log entry and added that the gyroplane "needed a rotor balance." The pilot then pointed out the carburetor leaks to the mechanic who had assisted with the build and completed the most recent condition inspection. The mechanic went for tools to address the leaks and returned to find the pilot had departed in the gyroplane.
The accident pilot then flew the gyroplane from North Palm Beach County Airport (F45), West Palm Beach, Florida to SEF. During the flight, the pilot noted that the cyclic control vibration was "excessive," and the airspeed indicator was inoperative. In text messages to the president of AutoGyro USA, the pilot stated, "…carbs leaking fuel, airspeed indicator not working, [and] can mix eggs with this control stick," and "I see how roughly this was put together." The accident pilot attached a video to the message to showing the control stick shaking during the flight. The president of AutoGyro USA stated that, after landing, the pilot and a colleague examined the gyroplane and found the airspeed indicator "disconnected." They retorqued the carburetor float bowls, and "wondered if the 40 hours Phase 1 testing had been done." The two further attempted to balance the rotor system through trial and error by adding and then subtracting weight on either side of the rotor head, which was unsuccessful on each attempt and subsequent test flights. AutoGyro USA offered to ship the necessary rotor balancing equipment to the accident pilot, who rejected the idea.
The AutoGyro Cavalon build and assembly instructions, the 25- and100-hour condition inspection checklists, the maintenance manual instruction, and the AutoGyro Pilot Operating Handbook provide instructions for inspection of the flight control connections.
Postaccident interviews, e-mails, and collected documents revealed that the owner/builder purchased the gyroplane kit from the German kit manufacturer through AutoGyro USA, Stevensville, Maryland, along with a "build-assist" agreement with Cloud9 Helicopters, West Palm Beach, Florida, an independent dealer of AutoGyro USA products. The owner/builder had no experience building or flying aircraft of any kind. His intention was to build the gyroplane and then learn to fly it. Cloud9 Helicopters agreed to perform the build-assist in exchange for 75 flight hours in the completed gyroplane in order to demonstrate the product to prospective customers for future sales.
After an experienced factory mechanic could not be arranged by the CEO of AutoGyro USA, Cloud9 Helicopters employed a mechanic who had not previously assembled an AutoGyro product, which conservatively required 3 weeks for assembly by an experienced builder. Later, an experienced AutoGyro builder, who could provide only one week's help was brought in to temporarily assist with building efforts. Upon arrival, the experienced builder directed that the gyroplane be disassembled because components had been installed incorrectly and in the wrong sequence. He found all the parts, components, and hardware had arrived with the kit, but they were packaged haphazardly, and considerable time was expended as the contents of the boxes were inventoried and organized for assembly. Further, common consumables (adhesives, lubricants, etc.) were not on hand and had to be purchased. According to the owner/builder, he "spent a lot of time going to Home Depot." When asked about his involvement with the construction of the gyroplane he said, "I put on stickers and wheel covers, nothing critical."
After the airworthiness certificate was issued, the gyroplane was test flown for the phase one testing period (40 hours). The test pilot hired to complete the flight testing stated that the test plan was modeled after FAA Advisory Circular 90-89A, Amateur-Built Aircraft and Ultralight Flight Testing Handbook. As part of the plan, the test pilot performed engine run-ups, system checks (pre-rotator, etc), high-speed taxi tests and short "hops" over the runway about 20 ft above the ground. The test pilot stated that during the testing the cyclic control exhibited a "sharp left pull" and that he explained the issue to maintenance personnel. The test pilot also stated that multiple exchanges with maintenance personnel and AutoGyro USA failed to resolve the issue. The test pilot further stated that he "grounded" the gyroplane at that time due to "improperly rigged flight controls" and indicated that he would not fly the gyroplane again until it was fixed. At the time that the test pilot ceased the test plan, the gyroplane had accrued 16.6 hours.
According to the owner/builder, the CEO of AutoGyro USA and the president of Cloud9 Helicopters were "not available" in the months following to complete the fly-off. In March 2018, the CEO of AutoGyro USA resigned his position and went to work for a competing gyroplane manufacturer, and Cloud9 helicopters became an independent dealer for the same manufacturer. Cloud9 Helicopters no longer had incentive to complete the project and the owner/builder had lost interest, so in September 2018, the owner/builder contacted AutoGyro USA to broker the sale of his gyroplane. Cloud9 Helicopters agreed to complete the condition inspection and the phase one flight testing in advance of an airshow that began November 1, 2018. At the time the agreement was made, which was on or about September 18th, 2018, the gyroplane had not accrued any additional flight hours since the previous flight testing had ceased. According to the President of Cloud9 Helicopters, he and 3 other pilots completed the flight tests between October 4 and 29, 2018.
On October 29, 2018, the accident pilot, who was the chief operating officer for AutoGyro USA, took possession of the gyroplane from Cloud9 Helicopters. His inspection of the accident gyroplane and its logbooks revealed that the hobbs meter displayed exactly 40.0 hours, the carburetors leaked, and completion of the 40-hour flight test period had not been documented in the maintenance logs. The president of Cloud9 Helicopters then made the log entry and added that the gyroplane "needed a rotor balance." The pilot then pointed out the carburetor leaks to the mechanic who had assisted with the build and completed the most recent condition inspection. The mechanic went for tools to address the leaks and returned to find the pilot had departed in the gyroplane.
The accident pilot then flew the gyroplane from North Palm Beach County Airport (F45), West Palm Beach, Florida to SEF. During the flight, the pilot noted that the cyclic control vibration was "excessive," and the airspeed indicator was inoperative. In text messages to the president of AutoGyro USA, the pilot stated, "…carbs leaking fuel, airspeed indicator not working, [and] can mix eggs with this control stick," and "I see how roughly this was put together." The accident pilot attached a video to the message to showing the control stick shaking during the flight. The president of AutoGyro USA stated that, after landing, the pilot and a colleague examined the gyroplane and found the airspeed indicator "disconnected." They retorqued the carburetor float bowls, and "wondered if the 40 hours Phase 1 testing had been done." The two further attempted to balance the rotor system through trial and error by adding and then subtracting weight on either side of the rotor head, which was unsuccessful on each attempt and subsequent test flights. AutoGyro USA offered to ship the necessary rotor balancing equipment to the accident pilot, who rejected the idea.
The AutoGyro Cavalon build and assembly instructions, the 25- and100-hour condition inspection checklists, the maintenance manual instruction, and the AutoGyro Pilot Operating Handbook provide instructions for inspection of the flight control connections.
The
gyroplane's impact damaged power lines, a power pole, and a residence.
Photographs revealed that the pole was fractured into three sections and
that the power lines were severed and entangled with the wreckage. The
residence was consumed by the postcrash fire. The power pole was
replaced and the powerlines were repaired before the wreckage
examination.
The wreckage path was oriented along a heading of about 290° and was about 39 ft long. The initial impact point was about 25 ft beyond the power pole. During the wreckage examination, all major gyroplane components were not accounted for at the accident site due to the extent of the fire damage. Identifiable components of the gyroplane included the rotor system, the engine, and the main landing gear cross-tube. The wreckage path ended at the engine, which was partially embedded in the residence. Landing gear wheels and tires were scattered outside the residence. The remainder of the gyroplane was consumed in the postcrash fire.
The rotor system was found between the initial impact point and the residence and remained attached to the pylon structure. The rotor system was largely intact and displayed signatures consistent with impact and heat exposure. Spiral striations consistent with wire contact and signatures consistent with electrical arcing were visible on the rotor blades. The rotor blades were secure in their grips, and the pitch and roll push/pull cable controls and pre-rotator drive were attached to the rotor head.
All external engine accessories were destroyed by fire. The flywheel was melted, and the remaining slag precluded rotation of the crankshaft. The propeller hub remained attached, and the composite blades appeared to be uniformly severed at their roots before fire exposure.
The engine cylinder heads were removed, and the pistons were removed from their connecting rods to obtain visual access to the crankshaft and connecting rods. The signatures observed were consistent with normal wear and lubrication.
The cockpit side of the roll control rod end bearing was found attached to the impact and fire-damaged aluminum roll control bellcrank. The rod end bearing was found separated from the push/pull cable end. The inner and outer pieces of the cable end were found separated from the inner push/pull cable. The cable end (threaded portion) and rod end bearing for pitch control were separated from the inner push/pull cable. The braided end of the pitch control cable was corroded but less so than the rest of the cable. The outer braided sheath for pitch control was separated from inner cable. The rod end bearing for pitch was not attached to the control horn. The bolt and nut were not installed or found after sifting through the wreckage. The exposed ends of both the pitch and roll cables appeared pulled from their respective sheaths and rod ends. The main flight control tube was corroded but intact.
The pitch control horn had two welded tangs (left and right); When assembled, the rod-end bearing to the pitch-control cable was placed between the tangs, and a bolt passed through one tang, the rod-end bearing, and the other tang and secured with a threaded locking nut. As found, the right-side tang was bent inward toward the left-side tang. The bolt holes and the tangs appeared intact and undamaged. The pitch control horn and the pitch control rod end bearing were further examined by the National Transportation Safety Board's Materials Laboratory. The Materials Laboratory found that the holes for the bolt were corroded but did not exhibit any deformation or signs that the rod end had been pulled from the pitch horn and that the damage was consistent with the rod end not having been attached to the pitch horn at the time of the accident.
The wreckage path was oriented along a heading of about 290° and was about 39 ft long. The initial impact point was about 25 ft beyond the power pole. During the wreckage examination, all major gyroplane components were not accounted for at the accident site due to the extent of the fire damage. Identifiable components of the gyroplane included the rotor system, the engine, and the main landing gear cross-tube. The wreckage path ended at the engine, which was partially embedded in the residence. Landing gear wheels and tires were scattered outside the residence. The remainder of the gyroplane was consumed in the postcrash fire.
The rotor system was found between the initial impact point and the residence and remained attached to the pylon structure. The rotor system was largely intact and displayed signatures consistent with impact and heat exposure. Spiral striations consistent with wire contact and signatures consistent with electrical arcing were visible on the rotor blades. The rotor blades were secure in their grips, and the pitch and roll push/pull cable controls and pre-rotator drive were attached to the rotor head.
All external engine accessories were destroyed by fire. The flywheel was melted, and the remaining slag precluded rotation of the crankshaft. The propeller hub remained attached, and the composite blades appeared to be uniformly severed at their roots before fire exposure.
The engine cylinder heads were removed, and the pistons were removed from their connecting rods to obtain visual access to the crankshaft and connecting rods. The signatures observed were consistent with normal wear and lubrication.
The cockpit side of the roll control rod end bearing was found attached to the impact and fire-damaged aluminum roll control bellcrank. The rod end bearing was found separated from the push/pull cable end. The inner and outer pieces of the cable end were found separated from the inner push/pull cable. The cable end (threaded portion) and rod end bearing for pitch control were separated from the inner push/pull cable. The braided end of the pitch control cable was corroded but less so than the rest of the cable. The outer braided sheath for pitch control was separated from inner cable. The rod end bearing for pitch was not attached to the control horn. The bolt and nut were not installed or found after sifting through the wreckage. The exposed ends of both the pitch and roll cables appeared pulled from their respective sheaths and rod ends. The main flight control tube was corroded but intact.
The pitch control horn had two welded tangs (left and right); When assembled, the rod-end bearing to the pitch-control cable was placed between the tangs, and a bolt passed through one tang, the rod-end bearing, and the other tang and secured with a threaded locking nut. As found, the right-side tang was bent inward toward the left-side tang. The bolt holes and the tangs appeared intact and undamaged. The pitch control horn and the pitch control rod end bearing were further examined by the National Transportation Safety Board's Materials Laboratory. The Materials Laboratory found that the holes for the bolt were corroded but did not exhibit any deformation or signs that the rod end had been pulled from the pitch horn and that the damage was consistent with the rod end not having been attached to the pitch horn at the time of the accident.
According
to the functional test flight – Cavalon protocol, rotor vibration
qualitative assessment, the test pilot was asked to respond
affirmatively to "rotor T&B [track and balance] OK?"
During
a postaccident interview, the AutoGyro USA operations manager was asked
if there were acceptable ranges for vertical and lateral vibration. The
operations manager replied,
If
the aircraft has any vibrations the balancer should be put on and the
process of documenting the correction should begin. To my knowledge none
of this was done to this aircraft. At the least, [the pilot] complained
to me about the poor balance (stick shake) of the rotor system on that
aircraft when he picked it up from Cloud 9. I remember there was a video
of that aircraft stick shake. From that video and my experience, I can
say that vibration level was unacceptable for delivery.
The operations manager of AutoGyro USA was also asked about aircraft controllability with a pitch control cable failure or disconnection. The operations manager stated that the Cavalon gyroplane remained controllable through the electric/pneumatic trim system and engine power adjustments. The operations manager cited the emergency procedure in the AutoGyro Pilot Operating Handbook, which stated the following regarding a flight control malfunction:
The operations manager of AutoGyro USA was also asked about aircraft controllability with a pitch control cable failure or disconnection. The operations manager stated that the Cavalon gyroplane remained controllable through the electric/pneumatic trim system and engine power adjustments. The operations manager cited the emergency procedure in the AutoGyro Pilot Operating Handbook, which stated the following regarding a flight control malfunction:
In
case of a flight control failure the gyroplane can be controlled with
the remaining primary and secondary controls, including power and trim.
An immediate reduction of power, respectively speed may be necessary to
avoid pitch oscillations…or other effects affecting dynamic or static
stability. Navigate to a suitable landing site with wide and shallow
turns and approach against the wind.
See the NTSB Website for the original copy of the above report
27.10.18 - Great Heck, North Yorkshire, UK - RAF 2000 GTX-SE - G-HEKK - The UK AAIB report states "Prior to takeoff, the pilot assessed the wind direction from his windsock as from 290°. He took off from Great Heck’s grass strip in a southerly direction but, at 80 ft, after passing above a tree line, he encountered “unexpected severe turbulence and down draft”. This caused the aircraft to descend to approximately 40 ft, after which the pilot reported cutting engine power and lowering the nose. The effect of this was an immediate descent to the ground resulting in significant damage to the aircraft.The pilot was wearing a full harness and suffered minor injuries. He stated that he was familiar with this airfield but had been startled by the unexpected turbulent conditions at 80 ft which may have explained his decision to lower the nose and reduce power.The pilot held a PPL with a single-engine gyroplane rating. This rating had expired just over two weeks prior to the accident, on 11 October 2018. The pilot also stated that he believed his license revalidation was required in November, not October which was why it was not valid at the time of the accident. The licence was revalidated on 12 December 2018."
Link to UK AAIB report for RAF 2000 accident G-HEKK
Oct 12 18 - Near Schwenningen airfield ( EDTS ), Germany - unknown gyrocopter type - unknown gyrocopter registration - the gyrocopter crashed as it tried to return to the airfield at Schwenningen shortly after take off. News reports suggest it struggled to climb after take off. The gyrocopter crashed approx 400m from the airfield. The pilot and passenger were helped from the gyrocopter by passersby before the gyro caught fire and burned out.
News link to gyrocopter accident near Schwenningen Germany
2-10-18 - Berryville, Henderson County, Texas, USA - unknown gyrocopter type - unknown gyrocopter registration - the gyrocopter is said to have tipped onto its side during landing -
News link to gyrocopter accident in Texas USA
Sept 21st 2018 - Scharnstein airfield, Austria - unknown gyrocopter type - unknown gyrocopter registration - Fatal accident - news reports suggest the gyrocopter crashed moments after take off - the pilot was killed
News link to gyrocopter accident in Austria
September 14th 2018 - North Weald airfield, Essex, UK - RAF 2000 GTX-SE - G-BXDE - The RAF 2000 gyrocopter crashed during take off, with two persons on board, a pilot and an examiner.
Part of the UK AAIB report states "The pilot lined up on Runway 20 and spun-up the rotor whilst applying full forward stick, he then applied aft stick as he commenced the takeoff roll. The pilot recalled that he thought the initial takeoff roll was normal and that he was holding the stick fully aft, but the gyroplane did not lift off at 40 mph as he expected. He remembered seeing the airspeed pass 60 mph whilst still on the ground. He did not recall the gyroplane becoming airborne, but remembers it climbing and rolling to the right before it descended back to the ground. The examiner recalled seeing a rotor speed of 130 rpm as the gyroplane started the takeoff roll and he noticed that the stick was not fully aft. He recalled that he was monitoring the airspeed and rotor rpm; he saw rotor speed reach 150 rpm but the airspeed was much higher than normal. He remembered seeing the airspeed reach 70 mph whilst still on the ground; the highest rotor speed he remembered seeing was 150 rpm. He recalled the gyroplane “leaping into the air”, then rolling to the right and completing a 180° turn to the right. He thought they reached approximately 50 ft before descending to the ground. He stated that the takeoff roll and accident sequence happened very quickly and that he did not have time to intervene. The gyroplane initially struck the ground on its right side, on the grass to the right of Runway 20. It stopped on the parallel taxiway (Figure 2). The pilot was able to exit the gyroplane unaided and helped the examiner out. The examiner suffered three broken vertebrae and multiple cuts and bruises. The pilot suffered minor injuries."
Photo via UK AAIB report
The UK AAIB report concludes "The accident occurred because the rotor speed and airspeed were not appropriately managed during the takeoff roll. It is possible that the gust lock had been left engaged preventing the rotor disc from being tilted fully back on the takeoff roll, leading to the low rotor speed."
11 9 18 - Caboolture airfield, near Brisbane, Queensland, Australia - RAFTOR ( modified RAF2000 ) - G-747 -
the gyrocopter is reported to have crashed on landing with the pilot
receiving minor head injuries. The Australian newspaper states "The
middle-aged male pilot suffered mild head injuries, a Queensland
Ambulance Service spokesperson said on Tuesday. Paramedics are attending
the scene and the man is in a stable condition."
Picture courtesy 7 Brisbane News
8th September 2018 - Magurka Wilkowicka, Beskidzie Małym, Poland - AAT Zen1 - OK-TWD-01 - the gyrocopter crashed into the side of tree covered mountains in southern Poland in foggy weather. The cabin appears to have survived in one piece - the pilot and passenger survived with minor injuries. The flight started at Nowy Targ airport (EPNT) with the intention of transporting the gyrocopter to the Zàbrèh airport (LKZA). During the flight the pilot encountered low cloud and fog, he turned to return but still in poor visibility decided to descend. During the approach to landing in a forest clearing near the town of Wilkowicepilot, he noticed tall trees and pulled off the joystick to slow down the speed of the gyroplane. The gyrocopter hooked the rotor on the trees and fell on the bushes growing on the edge of the clearing.
Ref PKBWL report 3028/18
September 2nd 18 - Blois airfield, France - DTA Xeeleex - Dept Registration 11-KR - the gyrocopter is said to have crashed on take off during the large trade show at Blois airfield. The Xeeleex is a new model from DTA, open tandem with a T tail. The pilot received minor injuries.
News link to DTA Xeeleex gyrocopter accident
More information on the new DTA Xeeleex gyrocopter
27-8-18 - The Meadows, Napa Valley, California, USA - Monarch Butterfly - N808DR ? - Local news reports that the gyrocopter landed in a field and was unable to take off again - local emergency services attended after initial reports of a crash - the pilot and gyrocopter are said to be uninjured/undamaged.
Link to Napa Valley news report for gyrocopter incident
9 August 18 - Spanish Fork airport, Utah, USA - AAT Tercel - N557AT - The gyrocopter crashed during take off and slid off the runway - NTSB list damage as substantial. News photos show the yellow and red gyrocopter on its side on the grass beside the runway with a detached rotor blade and damage to the tail. Another photo shows a long skid mark on the runway with some yellow paint heading off the runway.
Photo courtesy Spanish Fork Police Department
News link with photos of gyrocopter accident at Spanish Fork, Utah
UPDATE - the NTSB Factual Report states "The
solo student pilot of the gyroplane reported that, during takeoff, he
pulled the stick back and advanced the throttle to full. He accelerated
and noticed "there was no tendency for the nose to rise", so he applied
back pressure and the gyroplane immediately turned left, rolled onto its
side, and skidded off the runway to the left.
The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the main rotor, fuselage, and empennage.
The
student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical
failures or malfunctions with the gyroplane that would have precluded
normal operation.
The
flight instructor provided a video of the student pilot's accident
takeoff. The video showed the gyroplane accelerating down the runway,
rapidly pitching up, and immediately rotating to the left before
impacting the runway."
8-August-18 -Camarenilla, near Toledo, Spain - ELA 07 R-115 - EC-EZ1 - Fatal accident - the gyrocopter crashed and burned at approx 8pm killing the pilot.
News link to fatal gyrocopter accident in Spain 8-8-18
UPDATE - The Spanish summary states "On Wednesday, August 8, the ELA aircraft with license plate EC-EZ1 took off from the Camarenilla aerodrome (Toledo) to carry out a local flight. The pilot was on board. During the takeoff, when it was approximately 1.6 km away from the aerodrome in prolongation of the runway axis, it fell on the ground and caught fire. The pilot was deceased."
Photo courtesy CIAIAC report - Ref ULM A-016-2018
Link to CIAIAC report
July 29 2018 - near Saint-Georges-de-Rex, Niort ( Dept 79 ), France - Magni M-22 and also ELA 10 - 79-EP and 79-LH - Fatal - Two gyrocopters collided in mid-air and crashed into open fields. Both pilots were killed. Photos appear to show evidence of a fire at the crash site.
News link to fatal gyrocopter mid-air collision accident in France
July-28-2018 - Thannhausen airfield, Germany - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - D-MSWC - the gyrocopter is reported to have crashed moments after taking off from a grass airfield, reaching a height of approx 3m.
News link to gyrocopter accident at Thannhausen
21st July-2018 - Near Lake Dierpmes, Kilpisjärvi, Finland - type of gyrocopter unknown - registration of gyrocopter unknown - Fatal - Photo on local news media show the two seat gyrocopter crashed near the top of a barren mountain slope in northern Finland. The pilot was killed in the accident - the passenger was taken to hospital. The Norwegian gyrocopter was said to be en route from Lakselv in Finnmark to Steigen in Nordland.
News link to gyrocopter accident in Finland July 2018
July 10th 2018 - Dubbo airport, New South Wales, Australia - Gyro type unknown - Gyro registration unknown - Local news reports the gyrocopter crashed during take off at Dubbo injurying the pilot who was transported to hospital.
News link to gyrocopter accident at Dubbo, NSW 10-7-18
July 7 2018 - Near Ylivieska in North Ostrobothnia, Finland - Gyrocopter type unknown - Gyrocopter registration unknown - According to the police, the gyrocopter had departed from Kärsämäki airport to Ylivieska airport. The gyrocopter made a forced landing in a forest area.
News link to gyrocopter accident in Finland 7-7-18
7-7-18 - Tacoma Narrows airport, Tacoma, Washington, USA - Auto-Gyro Calidus - N623AG - Local news reports a gyrocopter crashed alongside the runway at Tacoma Narrows airport - the pilot and passenger received minor injuries - N623AG is a Type Certified Calidus and was recently delivered to this area.
News Link to Calidus accident at Tacoma, Washington 7-7-18
The FAA ASIAS initial summary states - "CRASHED UNDER UNKN CIRCUMSTANCES"
UPDATE - the NTSB Preliminary report states - On
July 7, 2018, about 1300 Pacific daylight time an Auto Gyro, Calidus,
gyrocopter, N623AG, sustained substantial damage subsequent to a forced
landing at Tacoma Narrows airport (TIW), Tacoma, Washington. The sport
pilot and his passenger were not injured. The gyrocopter was registered
to and operated by a private individual under the provisions of Title 14
Code of Federal Regulations Part
91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed,
and no flight plan was filed. The local flight was originating at the
time.
The
pilot stated that during his first attempt for takeoff from runway 17,
he experienced problems getting the pre-rotator to engage with the main
rotor ring gear. He cancelled his takeoff clearance and taxied to a run
up area where he successfully engaged the pre-rotator to the main rotor
ring gear. He then requested and received clearance from the air traffic
control tower to depart from runway 17. He stated that he achieved 200
RPM on the main rotor and began his take off roll. During the takeoff,
at an unknown altitude, the gyrocopter began shaking violently,
descended and hit the runway where it skidded approximately 100 ft, ran
off of the runway and came to rest on its left-hand side.
The gyrocopter was moved to a secure location for further examination.
25-6-18 - Quirindi aerodrome, New South Wales, Australia - Firebird gyrocopter - gyrocopter registration unknown - The ATSB summary states "During initial climb, the gyrocopter failed to clear trees at the end of the runway and made contact, resulting in a collision with terrain. The gyrocopter was substantially damaged and the crew received minor injuries."
ATSB Ref 201803192
June 12 2018 - near Matagne-la-Petite, Belgium - Air Copter A3C - French registration - Fatal accident - the red gyrocopter crashed into woods near the airfield at Matagne-la-Petite ( EBMG ) - the 82 year old pilot was killed.
News Link to gyrocopter accident in Belgium 12-6-18
June 12th 2018 - Petit airfield‚ Benoni, East Rand, South Africa - gyrocopter type unknown - gyro registration unknown - A news photo shows a red gyrocopter lying on its port side with part of the tail broken. The pilot was airlifted to hospital.
Link to News report for gyrocopter accident in South Africa 12-6-18
11-6-18 - Cokeville, Wyoming, USA - AAT Tercel - N640BE - the FAA ASIAS report states "TRENDAK GYROCOPTER EXPERIENCED A HARD LANDING AND FLIPPED OVER, COKEVILLE WY" - damage is listed as subtantial
Update -NTSB Factual Report states - "On
June 11, 2018, at 0715 mountain daylight time, an Aston Kinsey Tercel
gyrocopter, N640BE, impacted terrain during landing at a private
airstrip near Cokeville, Wyoming. The sport pilot and passenger were not
injured, and the gyrocopter sustained substantial damage. The
gyrocopter was registered and operated by a private individual as a
Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part
91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the
time of accident, and a flight plan had not been filed. The local flight
departed the private airstrip at 0700.
According
to the pilot, while performing maneuvers south of the private airstrip,
he felt no response when he applied left cyclic, and the gyrocopter
"was stuck in a moderate right turn." The pilot initiated an emergency
descent back to the private airstrip. During the approach, the pilot was
unable to regain control of the gyrocopter, and it impacted terrain
while sliding to the right. The gyrocopter rolled over to the right and
came to rest on its right side.
Post
accident examination of the gyrocopter by Federal Aviation
Administration inspectors revealed the gyrocopter sustained substantial
damage to the main rotor blades, fuselage structure, vertical
stabilizers, and horizontal stabilizer. A cyclic push/pull tube was
fractured consistent with damage sustained during the impact; no
additional anomalies were noted with the flight control systems. The
examination revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures
that would have precluded normal operation.""
May 26th 2018 -Bogorodsky District, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia - Auto-Gyro Calidus - RA-0038A - the Russian IAC ( Interstate Aviation Committee ) reports - "On 26.05.2018 in Bogorodsky District (Nizhny Novgorod Region, RF) the accident with Calidus RA-0038A FVSP private gyroplane occurred.
According to the available information the pilot and the passenger on board sustained minor injuries, the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The Interstate Aviation Committee has appointed the Investigation team in accordance with the Russian Aviation Legislation. The Investigation team has started its work."
21-5-18 - San Manuel, Arizona, USA - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - N574BR - The FAA ASIAS reports "ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE AFTER LANDING, SAN MANUEL AZ" damage substantial - the FAA Registers shows this as having a Rotax 912.
Update - the NTSB Preliminary Report states - "On
May 21, 2018, about 0845 mountain standard time, a Rhoads Autogyro MTO
Sport, N574BR, experienced severe vibrations and a total loss of engine
power during the initial climb from the San Manuel Airport (E77), San
Manuel, Arizona. The certified flight instructor and student pilot were
not injured; the gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the main
rotor system. The gyroplane was registered to Rhoadsrunner Gyroplanes
LLC and operated by Blue Sky Gryos as a 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 local familiarization flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed.
The
flight instructor reported that after an uneventful takeoff, the
gyroplane was about 400 ft above the ground when she heard a loud bang
followed by severe vibrations and a total loss of engine power. With no
suitable landing space ahead, she executed a 180o
right turn back towards the runway and landed the gyroplane
uneventfully. During the landing roll, she observed that the gyroplane
was on fire which was extinguished after the gyroplane came to a stop.
Further examination of the gyroplane revealed that one of the propeller
blades and part of the propeller hub was missing.
The gyroplane was moved to a secure location for further examination"
May 20th 2018 - Blackwater, Queensland, Australia - Magni M24 - registration unknown - The ATSB summary states "During
landing, the pilot lost directional control and the gyrocopter rolled
over resulting in substantial damage. It was determined that a foreign
object lodged in a wheel was the cause of the loss of control."
ATSB ref 201802480
ATSB ref 201802480
May 11th 2018 - Whakatane airfield, New Zealand - gyrocopter type unknown - registration unknown - Local media state that the gyrocopter was doing circuit training but crashed during a touch and go - it is suggested the rotor blade may have hit the propeller before the gyro rolled on to its side.
News link to gyrocopter accident in New Zealand 11-5-18
7-5-18 - Sebring airport, Florida, USA - ELA 07 - N534EA - The FAA ASIAS report states "AIRCRAFT CRASHED UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES, SEBRING FL"
A local news media report suggest the gyrocopter tipped over whilst taxying with the rotor in motion during a turn.
Link to news report for ELA accident at Sebring FL
photo via Highlands County Sheriff's Office
N534EA ELA 07 was involved in an earlier incident in October 2017 - scroll down
UPDATE - The NTSB Preliminary report is now published and states - "On
May 7, 2018, about 1145 eastern daylight time, an experimental,
amateur-built Ela 07 Scorpion gyroplane, N534EA, was substantially
damaged during the landing rollout at Sebring Regional Airport (SEF),
Sebring, Florida. The student pilot sustained serious injuries. The
gyroplane was operated by the student pilot as a personal flight
conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations
Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the
accident for the local flight.
According
to a witness, after the gyroplane landed on runway 1, the rotor blades
still had a "high speed" of rotation. When the aircraft started turning
to a taxiway on the left, a main rotor blade struck the runway, the
gyrocopter spun 180° to the right, and impacted the ground, coming to
rest on its right side.
Examination
of the gyroplane revealed that one of the main rotor blades impacted
the front of the fuselage and a section of the other main rotor blade
was impact separated and located about 350 ft from the wreckage. The
tail section remained attached to the fuselage. The flight controls were
intact, and no binding was noted when they were operated.
The
engine remained attached to the fuselage and the propeller remained
attached to the engine. All three propeller blades remained attached,
and two blades were impact damaged.
An 8 ft long tire mark and a ground scar in the asphalt were also noted in the vicinity of the main wreckage.
The gyroplane was retained for further examination.""
May 6th 2018 - Smith Beach, Virginia, USA - Apollo AG-1 - N141C - The FAA ASIAS report states "AIRCRAFT STRUCK A POWER LINE AND CRASHED ONTO A ROAD, SMITH BEACH VA"
News link to Apollo AG-1 accident in Virginia US
NTSB Preliminary report states - "On
May 6, 2018, about 1510 eastern daylight time, an experimental,
amateur-built Apollo AG-1 gyroplane, N141C, was substantially damaged
when it collided with power lines during a precautionary landing near
Smith Beach, Virginia. The private pilot sustained minor injuries. The
gyroplane was operated by the private pilot as personal flight conducted
under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was
filed for the flight that departed Halifax-Northampton Regional Airport
(IXA), Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, about 1330. The flight was
destined to Accomack County Airport (MFV), Melfa, Virginia.
The
pilot reported that he started to fly across the Chesapeake Bay to the
Cape Charles VOR at 1,300 ft above ground level. As he approached the
shoreline at the Cape Charles VOR, he turned north toward MFV. At that
time, the cloud ceiling began to lower very rapidly, so he made the
decision to land at a private airstrip prior to MFV. He mistook a road
for the private airstrip and the gyroplane collided with power lines
during the attempted landing. The pilot added that there were no
preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the gyroplane.
Examination
of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed
that it was intact and resting on its right side on a road. The
inspector noted that the fuselage sustained substantial damage. He did
not observe any anomalies with the flight controls and was able to
successfully test-run the engine on the airframe.
The
recorded weather at MVF, at 1515, was: wind from 170° at 4 knots;
visibility 1 3/4 miles in mist; overcast ceiling at 500 ft; temperature
18° C; dew point 17° C; altimeter 29.85 inches of mercury. The pilot
also reported that utilized weather equipment onboard his gyroplane, but
did not receive a weather briefing from flight service.""
6th May 18 - Goolwa, South Australia, Australia - ELA 10 Eclipse - registration unknown - The ATSB summary states "During take-off, the gyrocopter veered left and collided with terrain. The pilot sustained minor injuries and the aircraft was substantially damaged."
ATSB ref 201802154
May 4th 2018 - Calhoun, Gordon County, Georgia, USA - ELA 10 Eclipse - N533EA - The FAA ASIAS report states "Aircraft crashed into a field under unknown circumstances" - more details welcomed
18-4-18 - Baffle Creek, Central Queensland, Australia - ELA 08 - G-2727 - Fatal - Local media states "The aircraft left the Booyan Airstrip north of Bundaberg around 1.45pm on Wednesday and was due to arrive at a Farnborough property near Yeppoon that afternoon" - a search for the missing 78 year old pilot and gyrocopter is ongoing.
News Link to missing gyrocopter in Queensland
UPDATE 20-4-18 - Local media report - "The 77-year-old Farnborough man, Tim Pettitt, was found dead in his aircraft after a teenage boy spotted the wreckage in bushland near Baffle Creek, north of Bundaberg."
UPDATE - An initial Police/ASRA inspection found " It was determined that two empty jerry cans had supposedly been secured into the rear seat of the ELA gyro but the harness buckle had not been properly fastened. The slipstream loosened the harness and one jerry can, which flew out of the rear cockpit and into the prop. Two prop blades were detached as was one side tank of the coolant radiator."
14th April 2018 - Lagrange, Fayette County, Texas, USA - Magni M24 Orion - N3PW - Local media suggest a take off accident - more details awaited
News link to gyrocopter accident Texas 14-4-18
UPDATE - The NTSB Final Report states,
"The
gyroplane pilot reported that, during taxi to the runway for takeoff,
he began the pre-rotation of the rotor. As he turned the gyroplane to
the right onto the runway, a "strong gust" of wind tilted the gyroplane
to the left, and the rotor struck the ground. Subsequently, the
gyroplane came to rest on its left side.
The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the tailboom.
The
pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or
malfunctions with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal
operation.
A
review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station
located on the airport reported that, about 5 minutes before the
accident, the wind was from 320° at 17 knots, gusting 26 knots. The
gyroplane was departing runway 34.
Probable Cause and Findings
The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's failure to maintain lateral control while taxiing onto the runway in gusting wind conditions."
April 6th 2018 - Flavacourt airfield, France - Leon Gyro Tandem - 85-ALT - Fatal - the gyrocopter is said to have crashed a few seconds after take off - the 61 year old pilot was killed in the accident.
The French BEA accident summary states - "During take-off, the pilot lost control of the gyroplane which struck the ground at approximately 300 m from the runway threshold."
Leon Gyro Tandem - 85-ALT
News link to fatal Leon Gyro accident April 2018
26-3-18 - Haverhill, New Hampshire, USA - N442AG - AutoGyro Cavalon - The FAA ASIAS report states "GYROCOPTER VEERED OFF RUNWAY DURING TAKEOFF, HAVERHILL NH"
5th-March-2018 - Beaufort County Airport, Ladys Island, South Carolina, USA - Auto-Gyro Calidus - N221YT - Fatal accident - the FAA ASIAS report states "EXPERIMENTAL GYROPLANE CRASHED UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES, BEAUFORT SC"
Local media coverage names the pilot as Sam Dollenmeier and say the Calidus gyrocopter crashed near the end of the runway as the pilot flew local circuits.
News Link to accident of N221YT at Beaufort SC
Feb 27 2018 - near Rio Rancho, New Mexico, USA - ELA 10 Eclipse - N507EA - the FAA ASIAS summary states - "GYROCOPTER EXPERIENCED ENGINE FAILURE AND LANDED ON A ROAD, RIO RANCHO NM"
The FAA register shows this ELA 10 Eclipse to be powered by a Rotax 914.
The same gyrocopter had a previous incident in March 2017 - scroll down to see.
27-2-18 - Tamarindo airfield, Costa Rica - Autogyro MTOsport - ULTI-102 - the gyrocopter crashed during landing breaking the mast and rotor blades. News reports state that the pilot was from the USA.
News link with images on this Facebook link
Feb 12th 2018 - Victoria International Airport, North Saanich, British Columbia, Canada - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - C-GYRC - the gyrocopter is said to crashed a few seconds after take off and crashed mid runway. The pilot was taken to hospital. The gyrocopter suffered smashed rotors and propeller and detached tail.
News link to Cavalon gyroplane accident in Canada 12-2-18
29-Jan-2018 - Van Nuys airport, California, USA - Sport Copter II - N767LW - the FAA ASIAS report states "AIRCRAFT CRASHED DURING TAKEOFF FROM RUNWAY, VAN NUYS, CA" - few Sport Copter II gyros have been built - this is c/n 009.
Photo on Twitter appears to show damage to the rotor blade, tailplane and the propeller
The airport at Van Nuys tweeted - " Van Nuys Airport VNY @VanNuysAirport
Airfield incident at VNY involving a small helicopter between Rwys
34L/34R, north of Twy Golf. Airport Operations and Fire have responded.
No injuries reported. Rwy 34L remains open; Rwy 34R has been closed.
More information to follow. #VNYIncident"
UPDATE - the NTSB Final report states - ""According to the pilot of the experimental amateur-built gyroplane, during the takeoff roll on runway 34 in gusting wind conditions, the pilot did not allow the rotor rpm to adequately increase. He advanced the throttle and the nose pitched up. The gyroplane exited the left side of the runway and the rotor blades struck the propeller.
The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer.
The METAR at the airport reported that about the time of the accident, the wind was from 350° at 17kts gusting to 22kts.
The pilot reported that this accident could have been prevented if he had confirmed the proper rotor rpm.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation. ""
25-1-18 - Near Indiantown airport, Martin County, Florida, USA - Dominator - N412MF - Local news reports say the gyrocopter crashed very shortly after take off ending up on an embankment beside a waterway. The pilot was taken to a trauma centre.
Photo courtesy Martin County Sheriffs Office
The FAA ASIAS summary states "EXPERIMENTAL GYROCOPTER CRASHED IN A FIELD UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES, INDIANTOWN, FL"
News link to gyrocopter accident in Florida 25-1-18
Jan 14th 2018 -Taieri Airfield, Otago, Mosgiel, New Zealand - Auto-Gyro Cavalon ? - Registration unknown - Local news reports state "A police spokeswoman said officers were called to the scene at about
5.30pm after reports of the rotor coming off the aircraft as it was
coming in to land.
The pilot managed to get out safely, she said. ``It appears that a gust of wind caught the gyrocopter as it landed.''
A photo on the new link appears to show an Auto-Gyro Cavalon.
Link to news report for gyrocopter accident in NZ 14-1-18
13-1-18 - Point Venture, Texas, USA - Magni M16 - N317KD - the FAA ASIAS reports "AIRCRAFT MADE A HARD LANDING AFTER LOSING POWER, POINT VENTURE, TX" thankfully shown as no injuries.
Jan 8th 2018
- near Lake Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia - Magni M16C - registration unknown - The
ATSB sumary states "During taxi, the pilot detected abnormal engine
vibrations and shut down the gyrocopter. The gyrocopter sustained minor
damage. The engineering inspection revealed that the cyclic control was
likely in the full aft position during pre-rotation and coupled with a
slight crosswind, caused the blades to flex down into the plane of the
propeller."
ATSB ref 201800401
Jan 7th 2018
- near Kununurra Aerodrome, Western Australia, Australia - ELA 07/08 - registration unknown - The
ATSB summary states "During cruise, the pilot heard a loud noise
followed by vibrations through the airframe and a forced landing was
conducted. While landing, the rotor blade struck a tree and the
gyrocopter rolled over resulting in minor damage. The post-flight
inspection revealed a propeller blade had failed after being struck by a
foreign object in flight."
ATSB ref 201800152
Jan 5th 2018
- Somersby, New South Wales, Australia - Auto-Gyro model unknown - registration unknown - The
ATSB summary states "During the pre-flight inspection, the oil cap was
not replaced. During take-off, the oil cap made contact with the
propeller and the pilot rejected the take-off. The propeller sustained
minor damage."
ATSB ref 201800289
2017
8-12-17 - Spanish Fork, Utah, USA - Sport Copter Vortex - N395SC - the FAA ASIAS summary states - "AIRCRAFT RAN OUT OF FUEL, LANDED ON HIGHWAY, SPANISH FORK, UT"
Dec 3 2017 - Hernando, Desoto County, Mississippi, USA - Sparrow Hawk - N481ZK - Fatal - the gyrocopter is believed to have crashed on approach to land killing the pilot and passenger.
FAA ASIAS summary reads "
N481ZK HOMEBUILT EXPERIMENTAL SPARROW HAWK ROTORCRAFT DESTROYED BY FIRE, DESOTO, MISSISSIPP"
News link to fata gyrocopter crash in Mississippi 3-12-17
19-11-17 - Casa Grande airport, Arizona, USA - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - N953LS - the
FAA ASIAS initial report states "AIRCRAFT ON LANDING, STRUCK THE ROTOR,
ROLLED OVER AND CAUGHT FIRE, CASA GRANDE, AZ" - a news report says the
pilot and passenger declined medical treatment.
NEWS link to Cavalon accident in Arizona 19-11-17
November 17th 2017 - Oak Island, North Carolina, USA - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - N470CH - the FAA ASIAS states AIRCRAFT FORCE LANDED IN A FIELD, OAK ISLAND, NC, injuries none, damage substantial.
Note that this Cavalon N470CH had an earlier accident on 31st August 2014,
scroll down to see details. As a result of this first accident it was
cancelled from the US FAA register on 30th April 2015. It re-appeared
as a new registration on 23-10-17.
Nov 5th 17 - Trollenhagan airfield ( EDBN ), Germany - Auto-Gyro Calidus - D-MYEG -
the gyrocopter rolled over onto to its starboard side during landing on
the main runway, with damage to the rotor blades, propeller and canopy.
The pilot is said to be unhurt.
News link to Calidus accident in Germany 5-11-17
Oct 26 2017 - Tri-Cities Airport, Blountville, Tennesse, USA - ELA 10 Eclipse - N230MG - news
reports suggests the gyrocopter crashed onto the runway and tipped over
- photo shows the rotor blades, propeller and tail all damaged. The
pilot walked away from the accident. The runway was then shut and an
inbound Delta Airlines flight was diverted to Greenville.
FAA ASIAS shows - AIRCRAFT ON LANDING FLIPPED OVER, BRISTOL, TN
News Link to ELA gyrocopter accident 26-10-17
UPDATE - the NTSB Factual report states - "The
pilot of the gyroplane reported that when he returned to the airport
for landing, the winds were calm. After touchdown, the gyroplane was on a
slow roll when the tower controller asked him if he wanted to exit at
intersection Charlie. The pilot was about to reply to the controller
when the gyroplane unexpectedly tipped over and came to rest on its
side.
The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the horizontal and vertical stabilizers."
photo N230MG courtesy FAA
Link to NTSB Factual report for ELA 10 Eclipse N230MG
Oct 19 2017 - Sebring, Florida, USA - ELA 07S Scorpion - N534EA - the FAA ASIAS summary reads "N534EA ELA 07 SCORPION ROTORCRAFT, MADE A HARD LANDING, SEBRING, FL"
A local newspaper report suggests the new gyrocopter took off and quickly descended before tipping over, see
http://yoursun.com/sunnews/sebring/sebringnews/13547923-696/story.html.csp
3-10-17 - Pfullendorf, Germany - gyrocopter type unknown - gyrocopter registration unknown - The gyrocopter is said to have rolled over after landing on wet grass as it manouvred to avoid the end of the runway.
News link to gyrocopter accident in Germany 3.10.17
Oct 2nd 2017 -McCoy, Atascosa County, Texas, USA - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - N818PB - the gyrocopter hit some wires beside a minor road and crashed onto the road. The pilot was airlifted to hospital.
News link to MTOsport gyrocopter wirestrike in Texas 2.10.17
UPDATE - the NTSB Preliminary report states - "On October 2, 2017, about 1515 central daylight time, an MTO Sport gyroplane, N818PB, impacted a power line and terrain near McCoy, Texas. The student rated pilot received serious injuries and the gyrocopter was substantially damaged during the accident. The gyrocopter was registered to and operated by a private individual under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal RegulationsPart 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time.
The
initial report from the responding Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) inspector indicated that the pilot was landing near his residence,
when the left landing gear caught a power line. The gyrocopter then
impacted a roadway; coming to rest on its right side.
30-SEPT-17 - Kisslegg, near Ravensburg, Germany - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - D-MNHS - The gyrocopter crashed in a field causing major injury to the pilot and passenger - the cause of the crash is unknown. A news photo shows a yellow gyrocopter with extensive damage. The second news link shows a series of pictures from the crash site which suggests the gyrocopter may have traversed across a ditch after putting down in a grass field.
News link to MTOsport accident in Germany 30-9-17
Second News link to MTOsport accident 30-9-17
28-9-17 - Umatilla, Florida, USA - unknown gyrocopter type - N152AH - Fatal - the gyrocopter is said to have crashed into a wooded area killing the pilot.
News link to fatal gyrocopter crash in Florida
News link to gyrocopter accident in Florida 28-9-17
UPDATE - the NTSB Preliminary report gives more detail - "On September 28, 2017, about 1122 eastern daylight time, an experimental amateur-built gyroplane, N152AH, impacted a wooded area near Umatilla, Florida. The private pilot was fatally injured and the gyroplane was destroyed. The gyroplane was being operated under theprovisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the local flight which originated about 1000 from Bob White Field Airport (X61), Zellwood, Florida.
A
witness at a nearby bee farm reported seeing the gyroplane fly over his
position in a north-northwesterly direction. The witness reported the
engine was running, and he heard 2 popping sounds, followed 1 large pop
sound, and then the engine lost total power. At that time, while
about 50 to 60 ft above the tree tops, the witness observed a large main rotor blade separate.
The
gyroplane began descending and he lost sight but then heard an impact.
He drove to the accident site and informed the property owner of the
accident.
Nearly the full length of one main rotor blade was found about 193°
and 333 ft from the main wreckage. The wreckage was recovered and the
fractured main rotor blade were retained for
further examination.""
20th Sept 17 - Whangarei airfield, Onerahi, New Zealand - ELA 07 - ZK-VBA - the gyrocopter is said to have rolled over on to its side - it is unclear if this was whilst taxying or starting take off roll.
News link to gyrocopter accident at Whangarei, New Zealand
News link with photo of gyrocopter at Whangarei 20.9.17
17-9-17 Lake Drangsjon near Åkersberga, Sweden - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - SE-VNJ - Fatal - the float equipped gyrocopter crashed into a lake and ended up inverted. The pilot was killed.
News link to gyrocopter accident in Sweden
Saturday 16th Sept 17 - El Mirage dry lake, near Adelanto, California, USA - Ken Brock KB3 type - non registered - Fatal - the gyrocopter crashed during an early morning flight at the El Mirage dry lake - The pilot was killed in the accident
News link to fatal gyrocopter accident at El Mirage dry lake
News link names pilot involved in the El Mirage accident
The FAA ASIAS summary states - "UNREGISTERED GYROCOPTER CRASHED UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES IN EL MIRAGE DRY LAKE, THE 1 PERSON ON BOARD WAS FATALLY INJURED, NEAR PALMDALE, CA"
Monday 11-9-17 - RAF Scampton, Lincolnshire, UK - Auto-Gyro Calidus - registration unknown - the gyrocopter appears to have had an accident as it was taking off. The pilot and passenger were unhurt but fuel and debris had to be cleared afterwards. The gyrocopter had been a visitor to the RAF Scampton airshow held the previous weekend.
News link to gyrocopter incident at RAF Scampton
10th Aug 2017 - Popham airfield, Hampshire, UK - Auto-Gyro Calidus - G-CPTR - The UK AAIB report states, "Synopsis -The control stick was moved to the aft position during the takeoff run, the rotors struck the ground and the gyroplane rolled onto its side. History of the flight -
The pilot lined up his gyroplane and pre-rotated the rotor to 200 rpm, prior to an into-wind
takeoff
from a wet, grass runway which sloped down. He applied maximum wheel
braking but, after he disengaged the pre-rotator and before he
moved the control stick aft for
takeoff, the gyroplane’s wheels started to slide. Although the grass was very wet, the
wheel brakes had held during an earlier engine check.
The pilot was distracted by the apparent brake failure and when he realised he could not
prevent the gyroplane sliding forwards he elected to take off. Thinking that he had already
moved the control stick aft, he released the brake and let the gyroplane accelerate.
After travelling approximately 70 m, the pilot pulled the control stick back and the gyroplane
rolled quickly left, the rotors struck the ground, followed by the propeller; causing the
engine to stop. The gyroplane came to a halt on its left side and, with some difficulty, the
pilot managed to force open the canopy and climb out.
More on the report link below
Link to complete UK AAIB report for Calidus G-CPTR
3-8-17 - Mentone airport, Indiana, USA - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - N571UJ - the
gyrocopter appears to have rolled during landing onto its port side
causing damage to the rotors and propeller. The pilot sustained a wrist
injury. The gyrocopter was part of the PRA Mentone convention and
fly-in.
News link to gyrocopter accident at PRA Mentone
UPDATE - the NTSB Factual report #CEN17LA302 states - "On August
3, 2017, about 0917 central daylight time, a Hake MTO Sport gyroplane,
N571UJ, was substantially damaged when it tipped over on landing at
Mentone Airport (C92), Mentone, Indiana. Visual meteorological
conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The personal flight
was being conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal
Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot sustained minor
injuries. The local flight originated about 0930. According to the
pilot's accident report, when he touched down on the main landing gear,
he applied "moderate" right rudder to maintain runway alignment and to
avoid slipping. He stated he should have raised the nose to reduce
airspeed, but instead he lowered the nose and struck the runway. The
pilot explained that on this particular gyroplane, the nose wheel and
rudder are interconnected; that is, the nose wheel does not pivot on a
caster. When the gyroplane touched down, it 'jerked" abruptly to the
right and tipped over. The pilot concluded, "This accident was the
result of pilot error. There was no malfunction [of the gyroplane,
flight controls, or engine]."
31-07-17 - Wingham, Ontario, Canada - Bensen B8M - registration unknown - the gyrocopter is said to have crashed into a field near the Richard W. LeVan Aerodrome. The pilot was taken to hospital.
Link to news about Bensen gyrocopter crash in Canada
July 30 2017 - Blum, Texas, USA - Auto-Gyro Calidus - N507PF - the FAA summary states "N507PF CALIDUS AUTOGYRO, ON TAKEOFF TIPPED OVER AND STRUCK THE GROUND, BLUM, TX"
3-7-17 - Turweston airfield, UK - Auto-Gyro Calidus - G-GRYN - the UK AAIB summary states -
"The pilot had not flown for several months and had a total of six
hours on type. Having flown for about one hour he returned to land on
Runway 27 at Turweston. The wind was from the west-south-west. As the
pilot flared the aircraft for touchdown, he realised that he had
initiated the manoeuvre too early and that the aircraft was still
several feet above the runway and at a low airspeed. He lowered the
aircraft’s nose, during which the aircraft yawed and drifted to the
right. He applied corrective rudder and control stick inputs, but the
aircraft touched down on the right main wheel before rolling onto its
right side where it came to a stop. The pilot stated that it had felt as if the aircraft “had been caught
by a gust of wind from the left”, and considered that his lack of
recency and experience on type were causal factors in the accident."
LINK to UK AAIB report for Calidus G-GRYN at Turweston
18th-June-2017 - Stoke Creek, Hoo Peninsula, Kent, UK - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - G-GERN
- Crashed onto mud flats at Stoke Creek - the pilot and passenger
survived unharmed - the gyrocopter is believed to have major damage
June 17 2017 - Popham airfield, Hampshire, UK - Magni M16C - G-CIZK - The UK AAIB report has the following summary - "This was the student pilot’s fourth solo flight and he was using
Popham’s grass Runway 26 in good visibility and with a light wind from
240º. His first two solo flights had been made 15 days previously,
following a flight with his instructor.
On the day of the accident, the student completed one solo flight,
had a break, and had then begun flying a further series of circuits,
watched from the ground by his instructor. The aircraft’s attitude in
the third landing was flat and, as the gyroplane slowed, the student
moved the control stick fully back. The nose of the gyroplane pitched
up and it rolled right until the rotor blades struck the ground before
hitting the propeller. The gyroplane turned through 90º and came to
rest upright, with the engine stopped, before the student turned off the
fuel pumps and the magnetos and climbed out.
After watching the accident, the instructor commented that a normal
landing involves touching down on the mainwheels and then moving the
control stick back gradually, to initially keep the nosewheel off the
ground as the gyroplane slows. On this occasion the student rapidly
moved the control stick fully back and he then lost control."
The PDF report says the damage was as follows "Significant damage to rotor blades, rotor head
and mast. Airframe distorted and propeller blades destroyed"
This gyro was cancelled from the UK register on 27.9.17 as destroyed.
INK to UK AAIB report for Magni M16 accident at Popham
20-6-17 - Illawarra Regional airport, NSW, Australia - John McQueen homebuilt single seat gyrocopter - G-3500 - The
gyrocopter is said to have crashed during training at the airport at
Illawarra. The pilot escaped with minor injuries. A photo appears to
show the gyrocopter with a broken tail and rotor mast.
UPDATE - the ATSB summary states "During take-off, at approximately
20ft AGL the gyrocopter veered left and collided with terrain. The pilot
sustained serious injuries and the aircraft was substantially damaged."
ATSB Ref 201702761
News link to gyrocopter accident at Illawarra
16-6-17 - Between Toledo and Guadalajara, Spain - ELA 07 R115 - EC-GA5
- The pilot noticed strong vibrations whilst in flight - after lowering
the engine revs the vibrations also decreased - the pilot decided to
continue flying at a slow cruise speed. Upon landing the pilot inspected
the gyrocopter and found two of the three propeller tips were broken -
photo courtesy CIAIAC
- the official report summary states "Failure or malfunction of a system or component of the aircraft - not related to the motor group"
June 4th 17 - Near Spirit of St Louis airport, Chesterfield, Missouri, USA - N509PH - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - the accident happened at 9am - a photo on the news link shows the Cavalon tipping a little to starboard among tall grass in an apparent off field landing - the starboard undercarriage wheel appears damaged - more details welcomed
News link to gyrocopter accident at Chesterfield
The FAA Preliminary Report states "AIRCRAFT FORCE LANDED ON A ROAD, NEAR CHESTERFIELD, MO"
May 31st 2017 ? - near Szombathely, Hungary - Trixy Aviation G4-2 - unknown registration - the Trixy gyrocopter crashed into a flt grass field near a road after having hit electricty power lines. The news report states "An Austrian pilot flew from Sárvár to Szombathely when he discovered that there was something wrong with the machine and tried to land on the board, but the sinking machine hit an electric wire. A rescue helicopter arrived at the scene, currently stabilizing the status of an Austrian national pilot. According to our information, he is in a life-threatening condition."
Photos show the gyrocopter on its right side with broken mast and rotors.
News Link here to Trixy gyrocopter accident in Hungary
27-5-17 - Weathersford, Texas, USA - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - N721E - the FAA Preliminary report states "AIRCRAFT STRUCK TREES AND FLIPPED ONTO ITS SIDE, NEAR WEATHERFORD, TX"
The NTSB final report summary states "The pilot of the gyrocopter reported that, after flying over his passenger's house to take
pictures, he headed back to the airport. He added that, while in level flight, he noticed that "the
trees on the ground under [him were] rapidly getting closer." He initially presumed something
was wrong with the engine, so he reduced throttle and then successfully applied full throttle in
an attempt to troubleshoot the situation. He made a left 180° turn, and the gyrocopter struck
trees and impacted terrain.
The gyrocopter sustained substantial damage to the empennage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the
gyrocopter that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot reported that he had presumed the terrain he was flying over was flat but later
realized he had flown into rising terrain."
NTSB Report #GAA17CA308
8th May 2017 - Shobdon airfield, Herefordshire, UK - Auto-Gyro MTOsport - G-HOTC - the UK AAIB summary states - "Prior to takeoff on Runway 09, the pilot stated that the pre-rotator had rotated the gyroplane’s main rotor to approximately 150-160 rpm, less than the normal speed of 200 rpm. Despite this, the pilot elected to take off and, as the aircraft accelerated, increasing control forces were required to maintain the runway centreline. The aircraft pitched nose-up and rolled to the left, causing the main rotor blade tips and rear stabiliser to strike the runway surface. The pilot aborted the takeoff. The pilot attributed the accident to continuing the takeoff attempt with less than 200 rotor rpm, combined with him applying the power too quickly, which created a ‘blade flap’ situation."
LINK to UK AAIB report for MTOsport accident at Shobdon
May 7 2017 - Carrickmore, Omagh, Northern Ireland - Auto-Gyro MT-03 - G-TELC - the blue gyrocopter crashed close to the airfield at Carrickmore on a steep wooded hillside. The airfield was holding a Fly-In event. The gyrocopter is thought to have flown in from Scotland. The pilot and passenger were both taken to hospital.
News link to gyrocopter accident in Northern Ireland
4-5-17 - Stevensville airport, Maryland, USA - Auto-Gyro Calidus - N991TC - The gyrocopter left the runway ( RWY 11 ) during take off causing substantial damage. Note this was a Type Certified Calidus.
The FAA ASIAS summary states "AIRCRAFT WENT OFF RUNWAY 11."
UPDATE - The NTSB report #GAA17CA258 states "The pilot of the gyrocopter reported that, during the takeoff roll, the rotor rpm was not increasing. He continued the takeoff and kept the gyrocopter on the ground to gain airspeed by not moving the stick to the full-aft position. He added that this was an "old existing airplane habit." Subsequently, during the takeoff, the gyrocopter developed a "rotor flap," and he lost directional control. The gyrocopter came to rest on its side to the left of the runway.
The pilot added that not having the stick full aft prevented the rotor rpm from increasing and
that the appropriate corrective action would have been to apply full-aft stick.
The gyrocopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and rotors.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the
gyrocopter that would have precluded normal operation.
The gyrocopter's Flight Manual stated that, during the takeoff roll, the pilot must "bring the
control stick fully aft."
4-5-17 - Spanish Fork airport, Utah, USA - Sport Copter Vortex - N514CL - the gyrocopter crashed during a hard landing, rolled and caught fire.
The FAA ASIAS summary states "HARD LANDING, ROLLED TO RIGHT AND CAUGHT FIRE."
UPDATE - the NTSB report states "The student pilot reported that he flared the gyroplane too high and landed hard and that the gyroplane subsequently tipped over on its right side. He added that he evacuated the gyroplane before a postimpact fire ensued and destroyed the gyroplane.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the
gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable Cause and Findings
The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The student pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing.
3rd May 2017 - Shirataka-machi, Nishi-gitu County, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - unregistered - Fatal accident. The gyrocopter was imported into Japan in October 2015. At the time of the accident it was unregistered with the local CAA. The pilot had recieved some flight training in Germany in March 2017. It is believed that the Cavalon was being prepared for a ground run prior to seeking offical registration. The gyrocopter lifted off during the ground manouvres and the pilot continued the flight straight ahead before a right turn. A short time later it was seen tumbling to the ground and then caught fire on impact. The pilot was killed. The offical accident report notes that the flight was an unplanned deviation from a ground test, the gyrocopter was offically unregistered, the pilot was estimated to be at least 10KG under weight for a sole occupant flight without additional ballast - the main rotor blades appear to have cut the tail off before tumbling to the ground.
Link to the offical Japanese accident report for Cavalon 3-5-17
April 29th 2017 - Great Knoutberry Hill, near Dent, Cumbria, UK - Rotorsport UK MTOsport - G-RMTO - the gyrocopter crashed near the summit of the 2,205ft (672m) peak at Great Knoutberry Hill, which straddles the border between Cumbria and Yorkshire. The pilot was airlifted to hospital, the passenger escaped with minor injuries.
News link to gyrocopter accident in Cumbria April 2017
UPDATE - the summary of the UK AAIB report states "
He approached, at 1,700 ft amsl and over lower ground, the general area of Great Knoutberry Hill, which has an elevation 2,205 ft, before he changed direction to fly towards the hill. The pilot then realised that his airspeed had decayed from 70 mph to approximately 55 to 60 mph and that he was below the summit of the hill. He applied full power and climbed, but the aircraft failed to clear a fence on top of the summit and impacted the ground. The uninjured pilot and passenger, who were wearing full harnesses and helmets, were able to vacate the wreckage without assistance. The recently qualified pilot attributed the accident to his lack of experience in hill flying and failure to adequately monitor his airspeed." The PDF of this report states the pilot was aged 75 years and had 79 flight hours in type.
Link to UK AAIB report for MTOsport accident 29-4-17
17-4-17 - Knoxville Municipal Airport (OXV), Knoxville, Iowa, USA - Celier Aviation Xenon IV - N912XV - the gyrocopter crashed near the airport. The passenger is quoted as saying "...it stalled at about 500 feet and went into an uncontrolled descent"". The Xenon hit power lines as it made an emergency landing and crashed into a ditch. The pilot and passenger survived with minor injuries.
News link to Xenon gyrocopter accident at Knoxville
UPDATE - The NTSB suggests that the turbo unit fitted to the 912 engine may have failed on departure climb out - link to full NTSB report below
LINK to NTSB accident report for Celier Xenon IV 17-4-17
Apr 9th 17 - near Te Mapara, Waikato District, North Island, New Zealand - gyrocopter type unknown - gyrocopter registration unknown - Fatal accident. The gyrocopter crashed near the Pippio Golf Club killing the pilot. Local media name the pilot as Ben Price.
Link to local News report for gyrocopter accident in New Zealand
UPDATE - the gyrocopter involved *might be* ZK-OOZ Montgomerie Bensen B8MR ( ws once G-BWJN ) - to be confirmed.
26 March 2017 - near Krzeczyn Wielki, Lubin, Poland - ELA 07S R115 - A12-DOB ( American ASC type registration ) - Fatal. The gyrocopter crashed into an open field, photos suggest a high speed impact. Wreckage showed the engine laying a couple of metres from the very smashed wreckage. Both the pilot and passenger were killed.
News link to fatal gyrocopter crash in Poland
UPDATE - the PKBWL accident report shows that one rotor blade ( nr 1 ) was found approx 350m away from the broken wreckage of the gyrocopter ( wrak ). The second rotor blade ( nr 2 ) was detached but close to the main wreckage. The report says the unqualified pilot was receiving ad-hoc training from a gyrocopter pilot who was not a qualified instructor.
photo courtesy PKBWL Report 525-17
photo courtesy PKBWL Report 525-17
photo courtesy PKBWL Report 525-17
Link to PKBWL report 525-17 for ELA gyrocopter accident
25th-March-2017 - Wondai, Queensland, Australia - RAF 2000 - gyrocopter registration unknown - The ATSB summary states "During landing, the aircraft ballooned and collided with terrain resulting in substantial damage. "
ATSB Ref 201701451
March 12th 2017 - Surry County Airport, Mount Airy, North Carolina, USA - N7195R - Kens Wingless Wonder ( possible RAF 2000/Sparrowhawk ) - News reports show a gyrocopter on its side at the airport. The FAA ASIAS reports "GYROPLANE ON TAKEOFF CRASHED ONTO THE RUNWAY, MT. AIRY, NC"
A local news report states "However, Surry County EMS Director John Shelton did note the pilot, who has yet to be identified, was transported to Wake Forest Baptist Health Medical Center in stable condition after he was extricated from the wreckage by another pilot.
Shelton said the Bannertown Volunteer Fire Department also responded to the scene and put fire-retardant foam on the aircraft to prevent the high-octane fuel from igniting.
“He’s lucky it didn’t ignite when he crashed,” added Shelton.
Link to News report for gyrocopter accident North Carolina 12-3-17
Link to News report Mount Airy News
11-3-17 - Santa Maria airport, California, USA - N425AG - Auto-Gyro Cavalon - the gyrocopter rolled onto its side upon landing at Santa Maria airport ( KSMX ). The pilot is said to have been flying his second solo.
The initial FAA ASIAS report shows "N425AG AUTOGYRO ROTORCRAFT CRASHED ON LANDING, SANTA MARIA, CA"
Link to News report here for Cavalon accident at Santa Maria
March 10 17 - Belen airfield, New Mexico - N507EA - ELA 10 Eclipse - the gyrocopter rolled over after landing as it dropped of the edge of the runway.
The FAA ASIAS reports "N507EA EXPERIMENTAL ECLIPSE 10 ROTORCRAFT, ON LANDING, TIPPED OVER, BELEN, NM"
March 1st 2017 - Pavas airfield, Costa Rica - Auto-Gyro MT-03 - registration unknown - The gyrocopter crashed during landing. A video appears to show it landing close to the edge of the tarmac runway and grass surround. As it touches down it noses forward and rolls to the right side smashing the rotor blades. The pilot was taken to hospital with head injuries.
http://www.teletica.com/Noticias/153897-Video-muestra-instante-cuando-ultraligero-se-accidenta-en-aeropuerto-Tobias-Bolanos-en-Pavas.note.aspx
February 19 2017 - Landmead Farm, Garford, UK - Campbell Cricket Replica - G-BTMP - made a heavy landing and rolled onto is side with damage to the rotors, right axle, engine mounting and nacelle.
13th-Feb-2017 - Turweston airfield, UK - Auto-Gyro MT-03 - G-RTIN - the gyrocopter rolled over onto its right side whilst taxying at Turweston - damage to rotors, propeller and tail.
