20 Oct 2012: HUNTHROP AUTOGYRO MTO SPORT — HUNTHROP WILLIAM D

20 Oct 2012: HUNTHROP AUTOGYRO MTO SPORT — HUNTHROP WILLIAM D

No fatalities • Bourland, TX, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to fly the gyroplane in gusty wind conditions that exceeded his limitations and his resultant loss of control during takeoff.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

While performing touch-and-go training, the gyrocraft impacted terrain during a takeoff from the runway. The gyroplane's fuselage was substantially damaged. The Federal Aviation Administration inspector reported that the solo private pilot sustained a broken arm and a concussion; the pilot could not recall the accident sequence. In addition, the pilot was training to obtain a gyrocraft endorsement and had been signed off by his flight instructor to operate solo in winds up to 9 knots. Winds at the time of the accident were 20 degrees from runway heading at 19 knots gusting to 27 knots. At the time of the accident, the pilot had accumulated about 271 hours total time with 10 hours dual and 1.5 hours solo in make and model. A visual examination of the gyrocraft did not reveal any preimpact anomalies.

Contributing factors

  • cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Pilot
  • cause Effect on operation
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 190/19kt, vis 10sm

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