Pilot Debrief

ALEX MICHAEL BANTUM/TERCEL USA TERCEL-GYROPLANE near Blairstown, NJ — 2016-09-17

Final reportGAA16CA499
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Date
2016-09-17
Location
Blairstown, NJ, USA
Airport
1N7
Aircraft
ALEX MICHAEL BANTUM/TERCEL USA TERCEL-GYROPLANE
Registration
N528WM
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The student pilot’s incorrect takeoff procedure, which resulted in a loss of main rotor rpm and the subsequent loss of directional control and runway excursion.

NTSB narrative

According to the solo student pilot, the experimental, amateur-built gyrocopter was positioned for takeoff on the runway and stopped with the brakes set. He recalled that he engaged the prerotor, increased the main rotor speed to 180 rpm, then disengaged the prerotor, released the brake, and applied full throttle. He reported that, "this is where I made my mistake. At this point I should have brought the control stick all the way back, but did not." He recalled that the gyrocopter was moving forward rapidly but that the rotor rpm decreased and that he then pulled the control stick aft. He reported that the rotor blades were flapping, the control stick became uncontrollable, and the gyrocopter exited the runway to the left. The student pilot reduced the throttle to idle, and during the runway excursion, the left main and the nose landing gear separated from the gyrocopter. The main rotor blade struck the ground, the blade grip sustained substantial damage, and the rotor head partially separated from the frame. The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airframe or the engine that would have prevented normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot should have pulled the control stick back before releasing the brakes.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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