Pilot Debrief

Robert D Carr Jr Cavalon near Upper Lake, CA — 2020-08-04

Final reportWPR20CA253
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Date
2020-08-04
Location
Upper Lake, CA, USA
Aircraft
Robert D Carr Jr Cavalon
Registration
N635BC
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s distraction and failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a low altitude maneuver, which resulted in a loss of aircraft control and collision with terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the gyroplane reported that, while maneuvering at low altitude over a friend’s property, he looked down and backwards to the ground and inadvertently pulled back on the control stick, slowing the gyroplane to about 20 mph. He attempted to correct by applying full engine power and descending to reestablish airspeed. Concerned the gyroplane would impact trees, he flared just above a wooded area. The gyroplane fell through the trees to the ground substantially damaging the tail section. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions 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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