Pilot Debrief

Christopher John P CHR-1 near Norridgewock, ME — 2009-07-30

Final reportERA09LA438
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Date
2009-07-30
Location
Norridgewock, ME, USA
Airport
OWK
Aircraft
Christopher John P CHR-1
Registration
N179TC
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to a broken crankshaft for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the gyroplane stated that after takeoff he climbed to pattern altitude and, while on downwind and abeam the runway numbers, he heard a “pop and then experienced a terrible, violent vibration, seemingly catastrophic in nature. There was no power, but the engine was still running.” As he was conducting a forced landing in rough terrain, the wheel and then the main rotor dug into the ground, causing the ship to roll onto its side. The main rotor, mast, landing gear, and horizontal stabilizer sustained damage. Further examination by the pilot revealed that the engine crankshaft was broken near the No. 1 cylinder. The pistons of the non-certified engine had been replaced about 10 operational hours earlier.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have conducted a precautionary landing after hearing the pop.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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