ROTORSPORT CAVALON near Chico, CA — 2024-10-07

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed resulting in an inadvertent descent and subsequent collision with trees.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the gyroplane reported that, while maneuvering at a low altitude over his property, he pulled back on the control stick to slow down and observe the area. He then noticed that he inadvertently allowed the airspeed to decay to zero, and the gyroplane was descending. In an attempt to recover, he applied full engine power and pitched forward to reestablish airspeed. However, the gyroplane was at too low of an altitude to recover from the descent. The gyroplane struck a tree and fell to the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the empennage and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Loss of lift · Maneuvering-low-alt flying

Evidence available

• Photos
• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• PHOTOSphotos

Related mishaps

• SCHWEIZER SGS 2-33A

  2022-09-03 · Mount Bethel, PA

• Pipistrel SINUS

  2020-04-10 · Townsend, TN

• Robinson R44

  2019-06-08 · Last Chance, CO

• BELL 206

  2017-11-07 · Rolling Fork, MS

• CESSNA 182

  2017-03-25 · Mackay, ID

• KRETSINGER BENSEN B8M

  2015-06-07 · Maple Plain, MN