Accident Overview
On July 1, 2022, about 1230 central daylight time, a Rotorsport UK Ltd MTOSport 2017 gyroplane, registration N44AL, sustained substantial damage during an accident near Mead, Oklahoma. The pilot was not injured. The gyroplane was operating as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
Flight Sequence
The pilot initially departed around 0800 central daylight time. He landed at an off-field location to visit a friend, then departed again about 1100. During the subsequent cruise flight, he experienced a partial loss of engine power. The gyroplane impacted a power line and trees during the forced landing. The fuselage and empennage suffered substantial damage. The gyrocopter was recovered from the site two days after the accident.
Post-Accident Examination
The pilot and owner reported that the engine assembly appeared intact and undamaged, and engine control continuity was confirmed. All fuel lines were secure with no chafing damage. Approximately one cup of water was recovered from the fuel tank and lines. The fuel tank cap was securely installed, and the seal appeared intact. After installation of a new propeller, an engine test run was conducted by the pilot and owner. The engine started with some difficulty, but once running, it operated smoothly without obvious anomalies. The aircraft fuel pump operated normally when tested.
Fueling Information
The pilot noted that the gyroplane was refueled with automotive fuel before the initial flight of the day, directly from a gas station. He did not use any intermediate container such as fuel cans to transfer fuel. He was diligent in obtaining preflight fuel samples but was uncertain how water could have entered the fuel system.