Pilot Debrief

HUNT SPARROWHAWK near Blair, NE — 2011-10-15

Final reportCEN12CA029
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Date
2011-10-15
Location
Blair, NE, USA
Airport
BTA
Aircraft
HUNT SPARROWHAWK
Registration
N29HT
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot/builder’s inadequate installation of a nosewheel steering component, which resulted in a shimmy and a loss of directional control during the takeoff roll.

NTSB narrative

During the takeoff roll, the nosewheel experienced a shimmy, and the pilot was unable to maintain directional control. The gyrocopter rolled onto its left side, exited the side of the runway, and came to rest in the grass. During the rollover, the main rotor mast sustained substantial damage. A postaccident examination of the gyrocopter revealed a loose bolt in the nose gear steering linkage, which allowed the nosewheel to shimmy. The pilot, who was also the builder, was testing the newly built gyrocopter.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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