On 19 Nov 2017, a JOHN ROSCOE AUTOGYRO CAVALON NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near Casa Grande, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in loss of directional control and a subsequent runway excursion. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
A gyroplane veered right during landing, bounced between wheels, and its main rotor blade struck the runway before rolling onto its side and being consumed by fire.
Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that during landing, the right wheel touched down first on the runway, causing the gyroplane to veer to the right. Subsequently, the aircraft "bounced from one wheel to the other" multiple times until the main rotor blade struck the runway. The gyroplane then rolled to the right, slid off the runway, and came to rest on its left side.
Post-Crash Fire
A post-crash fire ignited in the engine compartment and consumed the gyroplane. The gyroplane was destroyed.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Landing flare — Not attained/maintainedDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot