Pilot Debrief

Rotorsport UK Ltd MTOSport 2017 near Mead, OK — 2022-07-01

Final reportCEN22LA311
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Date
2022-07-01
Location
Mead, OK, USA
Aircraft
Rotorsport UK Ltd MTOSport 2017
Registration
N44AL
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported a partial loss of engine power during cruise flight. The gyroplane impacted a power line and trees during the subsequent forced landing. The fuselage and empennage sustained substantial damaged during the impact. About 1 cup of water was recovered from the fuel tank/lines. A subsequent engine test run performed by the pilot/owner did not reveal any anomalies with respect to normal operation. The pilot stated that he was diligent in obtaining preflight fuel samples and was uncertain how any water could have been introduced into the fuel system. After an approximate 2-hour flight since refueling, the likelihood of a fuel contamination event was remote. However, based on the subsequent engine run with no anomalies noted, the reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel quality more thoroughly before departure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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