Pilot Debrief

LATHROP STEVEN A B8M near Ravenna, MI — 2015-05-01

Final reportCEN15LA235
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Date
2015-05-01
Location
Ravenna, MI, USA
Airport
MKG
Aircraft
LATHROP STEVEN A B8M
Registration
N5606X
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to carburetor icing.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot of the gyrocopter stated that, after reducing engine power to descend, the engine experienced a total loss of power due to carburetor ice and that there was nowhere to land. The gyrocopter subsequently impacted 30-ft high power lines and the ground. Examination of the wreckage showed that the rotor blades were coned upward consistent with low rotor rpm at ground impact. Given the weather conditions in the area about the time of the accident, the aircraft would have been operating in conditions conducive to moderate carburetor icing at cruise power and serious icing at descent power. Thus, it is likely that the engine lost power due to carburetor icing.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided carb ice by maintaining higher engine power.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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