On 20 Oct 2012, a HUNTHROP AUTOGYRO MTO SPORT operated by HUNTHROP WILLIAM D was involved in an aviation accident near Bourland, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to fly the gyroplane in gusty wind conditions that exceeded his limitations and his resultant loss of control during takeoff. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
A gyroplane sustained substantial damage during touch-and-go training when it impacted terrain on takeoff. The solo private pilot suffered a broken arm and concussion. Winds were gusting to 27 knots, exceeding the pilot's solo wind limit of 9 knots.
Accident Details
A gyrocraft impacted terrain during a takeoff from the runway while performing touch-and-go training. The gyroplane's fuselage was substantially damaged. The solo private pilot sustained a broken arm and a concussion and could not recall the accident sequence. Winds at the time of the accident were 20 degrees from runway heading at 19 knots gusting to 27 knots.
Pilot Information
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. 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.
Aircraft Examination
A visual examination of the gyrocraft did not reveal any preimpact anomalies.
Contributing factors
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilotEffect on operation