Pilot Debrief

HAWLEY RICHARD A1B near Lincoln, CA — 2018-04-13

Final reportGAA18CA213
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Date
2018-04-13
Location
Lincoln, CA, USA
Airport
LHM
Aircraft
HAWLEY RICHARD A1B
Registration
N5249H
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that this was his first flight in the accident gyroplane. He added that, during takeoff from runway 15, which was 6,001 ft long by 100 ft wide, he centered the gyroplane on the runway and increased engine rpm and rotor speed. Around 120 rotor rpm during the takeoff roll, he pulled back on the cyclic. Due to his injuries sustained in the accident, he does not recall what occurred afterward. The gyroplane came to rest on its right side on the right side of the runway and sustained substantial damage to the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about 5 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 260° at 7 knots. The same automated station reported that, about 15 minutes after the accident, the wind was from 330° at 5 knots. The gyrocopter was departing runway 15.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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