What happened
On 13 May 2022, a recreational flight involving an AutoGyro Cavalon, registration OK-AWC98, resulted in an accident near the Brzeziny airfield. The pilot had prepared the aircraft for flight, refueled the engine, and taxied to a takeoff point on a meadow adjacent to a local hangar.
During the takeoff procedure, the pilot initiated the pre-rotation of the main rotor to 200 rpm and applied full throttle. As the aircraft began its takeoff run, the pilot realized that the main landing gear wheel brake had not been released. In an attempt to abort the maneuver, the pilot reduced engine power and moved the control stick forward. During this deceleration, the aircraft tilted to the right, causing the rotating main rotor to strike the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to rotate violently and overturn on its right side. The pilot was able to exit the cockpit through the broken forward glazing and sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the pilot's credentials, the aircraft's maintenance history, and the environmental conditions at the time of the occurrence. The investigation confirmed that the weather was favorable (CAVOK) and had no impact on the accident. The aircraft was found to be properly maintained, with all engine parameters and weight and balance within prescribed limits. The pilot was found to be rested and not under the influence of alcohol or drugs, though the investigation noted the pilot had relatively limited flight experience, having held his license for less than three months.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a pilot error involving the initiation of the takeoff run with the main landing gear brake engaged. This created destructive forces at the landing gear attachment points, causing the gear to detach from the fuselage.
- The pilot's limited flight experience acted as a contributing factor.
- The investigation noted that for AutoGyro Cavalon models manufactured prior to 2015, the landing gear mounting design used a threaded aluminum profile, a design that was later updated to a stronger through-bolt system in 2015.