Accident Details
During the takeoff roll, the pilot of the gyrocopter observed that the rotor RPM was not increasing as expected. Despite this, the pilot proceeded with the takeoff, keeping the gyrocopter on the ground to build airspeed. He refrained from moving the control stick to the full aft position, a habit he attributed to flying airplanes.
Pilot's Actions
The pilot noted that not having the stick fully aft prevented the rotor RPM from increasing. He stated that the appropriate corrective action would have been to apply full aft stick. The gyrocopter subsequently developed a condition described as a "rotor flap" and the pilot lost directional control.
Accident Outcome
The gyrocopter came to rest on its side to the left of the runway. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and rotors.
No Mechanical Failure
The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the gyrocopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight Manual Guidance
The Gyrocopter's Flight Manual specifies that during the takeoff roll, the pilot must "bring the control stick fully aft."