What happened
On September 28, 2025, at approximately 1000 EST, a Spicola AR-1 gyroplane, registration N107AR, was involved in an accident at Buckingham Field Airport (FL59) in Lehigh Acres, Florida. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal flight.
Prior to departure, the pilot added 7 gallons of 1le00LL fuel, bringing the total fuel to 14 gallons. The pilot reported that a preflight inspection revealed no discrepancies and no fuel contaminants were found. Weight and balance calculations indicated the aircraft was 37 pounds below the design gross weight. After an engine run-up at the approach end of the runway, the pilot began the takeoff roll on runway 32.
During the climb, at an altitude of approximately 100 to 150 feet above ground level, the pilot observed a significant reduction in climb performance. While checking engine instruments, the pilot noted the engine RPM had dropped to approximately 5,100 RPM. Realizing a forced landing was necessary, the pilot attempted to maintain an airspeed of 55 knots while maneuvering to avoid trees at the end of the runway.
In an attempt to find a landing area and avoid obstacles, the pilot executed a left turn. The aircraft landed on the upslope of a bank between two retention ponds. The impact sheared the nose landing gear, and the gyroplane subsequently entered the second pond, where it rolled onto its right side in approximately 2 to 3 feet of water. The pilot and the pilot-rated passenger were not injured.