Summary
A student pilot was conducting a stop-and-go landing in a gyroplane when the aircraft bounced approximately 4 feet during the landing in crosswind conditions. The wind lifted the gyroplane, and the pilot reported lacking sufficient speed or rudder control to counteract the resulting drift. The gyroplane subsequently impacted the ground on its right side.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The student pilot was the sole occupant. The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage. The pilot reported that no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine were present that would have precluded normal operation.
Accident Sequence
During the stop-and-go landing, the gyroplane bounced about 4 feet. The pilot stated that the wind lifted the aircraft and he did not have "the speed or rudder control to counteract" the drift. The gyroplane then impacted the ground on its right side.
Weather
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport revealed that approximately 39 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 300° at 8 knots. The gyroplane was landing on runway 30.
Damage
Substantial damage to the empennage was reported.
Pilot Report
The student pilot reported no mechanical issues and provided the account of the bounce and loss of control in the crosswind conditions.