Pilot Debrief

WAYNE MILLER SPORT COPTER II near Van Nuys, CA — 2018-01-29

Final reportGAA18CA114
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Date
2018-01-29
Location
Van Nuys, CA, USA
Airport
VNY
Aircraft
WAYNE MILLER SPORT COPTER II
Registration
N767LW
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s decision to takeoff in gusting wind conditions with insufficient rotor rpm.

NTSB narrative

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.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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