Accident Overview
On November 17, 2017, at approximately 1000 eastern standard time, an experimental, amateur-built Autogyro Cavalon, registration N470CH, was substantially damaged in an accident near Oak Island, North Carolina. The flight was conducted as a 14 CFR Part 91 instructional flight. The private pilot (also the owner) and a flight instructor were not injured.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the engine run-up and takeoff to the southwest were normal. While climbing through 100 feet above ground level, shortly after applying full power—which engaged the turbocharger—there was a rapid loss of engine power from 5,000 rpm to 3,000 rpm. The aircraft became unable to maintain flight. The flight instructor took control and executed a 180-degree turn back toward runway 5. Immediately after completing the turn, the aircraft landed hard in the grassy area west of the runway and rolled to a stop.
Damage and Disposition
An examination by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed that the fuselage was cracked in multiple locations, and the center throttle console was buckled, indicating substantial internal damage to the airframe. Subsequent follow-up with the pilot revealed that the gyrocopter was damaged beyond repair and was disposed of without any additional troubleshooting or examination of the engine or turbocharger.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was stated in the source.