Pilot Debrief

SMITH DENNIS P MAGNI M24 near La Grange, TX — 2018-04-14

Final reportGAA18CA217
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Date
2018-04-14
Location
La Grange, TX, USA
Airport
3T5
Aircraft
SMITH DENNIS P MAGNI M24
Registration
N3PW
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control while taxiing onto the runway in gusting wind conditions.

NTSB narrative

The gyroplane pilot reported that, during taxi to the runway for takeoff, he began the pre-rotation of the rotor. As he turned the gyroplane to the right onto the runway, a "strong gust" of wind tilted the gyroplane to the left, and the rotor struck the ground. Subsequently, the gyroplane came to rest on its left side. The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation. A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about 5 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 320° at 17 knots, gusting 26 knots. The gyroplane was departing runway 34.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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