History of Flight
On April 19, 2008, at approximately 1749 central standard time, the gyrocopter experienced a loss of control while maneuvering, resulting in a collision with terrain at Goliad County Industrial Airpark (7T3) near Berclair, Texas. The pilot was the sole occupant and was fatally injured. The flight was conducted under visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. No eyewitnesses were present.
Personnel Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate with a single-engine land airplane rating. There were no records indicating a sport pilot certificate. Personal flight records and medical certificate application were not found. The pilot's flight experience in gyrocopters could not be determined.
Aircraft Information
The gyrocopter was a 2007-model Blevins Vortex, serial number 056, amateur-built, single-engine, with a teetering blade rotor system and one occupant configuration. It was powered by a two-cylinder Rotax 582 engine rated at 64 horsepower, driving a three-bladed Wood Comp composite propeller. Maintenance records were not located. A special airworthiness certificate had been issued on January 28, 2008.
Meteorological Information
At 1746, automated weather at Beeville Municipal Airport (BEA), about 18 nautical miles southwest, reported wind from 120 degrees at 13 knots gusting to 19 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, clear skies, temperature 82°F, dew point 39°F, and barometric pressure 29.95 inches of mercury.
Wreckage and Impact Information
The gyrocopter impacted a flat open field and came to rest on its right side. No post-crash fire occurred. Control continuity was established to all flight and engine controls. All major components were accounted for. Two of four bolts in the main rotor head squash plate appeared improperly torqued, but investigators could not determine if this was a contributing factor. Propeller damage indicated the engine was producing power at impact. The reason for the loss of control could not be determined.
Medical and Pathological Information
An autopsy performed on April 20, 2008, listed the cause of death as multiple blunt force injuries. Toxicological testing was negative for carbon monoxide, cyanide, ethanol, and tested drugs.