Pilot Debrief

AutoGyro Cavalon near Shelton, WA — 2019-08-15

Final reportWPR19LA221
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Date
2019-08-15
Location
Shelton, WA, USA
Airport
SHN
Aircraft
AutoGyro Cavalon
Registration
N477AG
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to initiate the takeoff roll with inadequate rotor speed, and his failure to follow the published takeoff procedures, which resulted in a loss of control and impact with the ground.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the gyroplane was practicing takeoffs and landings. On the accident takeoff attempt, the pilot initiated the takeoff roll with a rotor rpm less than that recommended by the manufacturer. When he saw that the speed of the gyroplane was higher than normal and the gyroplane still had not lifted off the runway, he applied aft control stick to initiate the takeoff, contrary to the published takeoff procedures in the owner’s manual. The gyroplane then immediately lifted off the runway and rolled to the left. The rotor contacted the left vertical stabilizer and the runway. An examination of the wreckage revealed no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation. It is likely that the pilot’s decision to initiate the takeoff with low rotor rpm and his failure to follow the published takeoff procedure resulted in a loss of control.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot should have aborted takeoff due to low rotor RPM before the takeoff roll.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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