Pilot Debrief

Healy RAF 2000 near Hopkinsville, KY — 2010-05-17

Final reportERA10CA270
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Date
2010-05-17
Location
Hopkinsville, KY, USA
Airport
HVC
Aircraft
Healy RAF 2000
Registration
N397MK
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s overcompensation for gusting wind conditions during the takeoff roll, which resulted in a loss of control.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he was taking off from runway 26 on the second of two gyroplane test flights following tracking adjustments to the main rotor blades. The first test flight was uneventful. During the takeoff roll on the second test flight, a gust of wind raised the gyroplane’s left wheel off the ground. With the rotors not yet up to speed, the pilot corrected with right cyclic to “force the wheel down,” and left pedal to “maintain straight ground track.” However, he “added too much pedal and [the gyroplane began] to swerve erratically on the runway.” The pilot cut engine power, but then the gyroplane encountered a second gust of wind, which resulted in another roll. The advancing main rotor blade struck the ground, “catapulting” the gyroplane off the runway. The gyroplane came to rest on its left side facing opposite the direction of travel, and the pilot sustained serious injuries. The gyroplane’s main rotor blades and empennage were substantially damaged. No mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported by the pilot. The pilot reported winds from 290 degrees true at 7 knots, gusting to 14 knots.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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