Accident Overview
On August 14, 2019, about 1800 Pacific daylight time, an experimental AutoGyro Cavalon gyroplane, registration N477AG, was substantially damaged when it crashed near Shelton, Washington. The pilot, who was operating the gyroplane under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 for personal use, received minor injuries.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported conducting stop-and-go takeoffs and landings on runway 23. He stated that he had completed three or four such cycles prior to the accident, with the gyroplane lifting off at approximately 52 miles per hour (mph). During the accident takeoff attempt, the pilot noted that the rotor indicated 190 rpm before the takeoff roll—10 rpm below the manufacturer's recommendation. As the gyroplane accelerated, he observed a speed of nearly 60 mph. When he pulled the control stick back, the gyroplane pitched up and yawed to the right, then struck the ground. The pilot heard a loud bang, and the aircraft impacted the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the accident site revealed that the gyroplane came to rest slightly left of the runway centerline, rolled onto its left side, and slid approximately 170 feet to the left edge of the runway. Rotor blade and propeller contact marks were visible along the debris path, consistent with both components rotating at impact. All major components remained attached. The left vertical stabilizer exhibited damage on its top side consistent with rotor impact. Visual inspection of the fuselage and engine found no pre-existing mechanical issues that would have prevented normal operation.
Pilot Experience
According to the pilot's logbook, he had accumulated about 73 total flight hours in the accident gyroplane. The last logbook entry was dated August 14, 2019, the day of the accident; the previous flight was on August 10, 2019.
Relevant Guidance
The FAA Rotorcraft Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-21) discusses takeoff techniques for gyroplanes, noting the importance of coordinated throttle and flight control inputs, and the risk of blade flap from excessive airflow through the rotor system at low rpm. The Cavalon Owner's Manual (Sections 4.8 and 4.9) specifies increasing rotor rpm to 200–220 rpm during takeoff and warns that slow rotors can stall and flap, causing damage. The manual advises aborting the takeoff run if rotor speed is insufficient.