Pilot Debrief

MCCOWAN STEVE A SHTTD near Montrose, GA — 2013-02-04

Final reportERA13LA126
Sign in to save
Date
2013-02-04
Location
Montrose, GA, USA
Aircraft
MCCOWAN STEVE A SHTTD
Registration
N4201S
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power during cruise flight due to the separation of the No. 2 piston connecting rod.

NTSB narrative

About 15 minutes after takeoff, during cruise flight, the engine's performance began to degrade. Although the flight instructor increased engine power, the engine subsequently lost total power, so he maneuvered the gyroplane for landing in a clearing. During the approach, the main rotor blade impacted power lines. Subsequently, the gyroplane landed hard, rolled over, and came to rest on its right side, which resulted in substantial damage to the rotor system, horizontal stabilizer, and fuselage. Examination of the engine crankcase revealed a hole near the fuel intake system and the separation of the No.2 piston connecting rod.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the flight after initial engine power degradation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents9

Related mishaps