Pilot Debrief

TRENDAK TAURUS near Strawberry Reservoir, UT — 2023-03-11

Final reportWPR23LA126
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Date
2023-03-11
Location
Strawberry Reservoir, UT, USA
Aircraft
TRENDAK TAURUS
Registration
N553AT
Category
Gyroplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from the snow-covered lake while flying at a low altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while flying low over a snow-covered frozen lake, the gyrocopter was closer to the surface than he realized. The pilot increased engine power to attempt to climb away from the surface, however, the nosewheel impacted snow on the surface and the gyrocopter nosed over, rolled, and came to rest on its side. The fuselage, horizontal stabilizer, and rudders were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the gyrocopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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