What happened
On December 27, 2020, at approximately 12:30 UTC, a Trendak Aviation Tercel gyrocopter was performing a local sightseeing flight from the Pousada das Águias Aerodrome (SSXO) in Presidente Castelo Branco, Paraná. During the takeoff roll, after traveling roughly 50 meters, the pilot lost control of the aircraft immediately after lifting the nose gear. The aircraft veered off the left side of the runway, struck an embankment, and overturned to the left.
The impact caused substantial damage to the engine, cowling, tail, and rotor. The pilot remained uninjured during the incident.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation revealed significant regulatory non-compliance regarding both the pilot and the aircraft. The individual operating the aircraft did not possess a pilot's license, any aeronautical qualification, or a valid Medical Certificate (CMA) registered with the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). Furthermore, the pilot had limited experience, with only approximately 35 to 50 flight hours, all performed in the same aircraft.
The aircraft itself was an experimental-built model that lacked a Certificate of Authorization for Experimental Flight (CAVE) and was not registered in the Brazilian Aeronautical Registry (RAB). Due to the lack of proper documentation and the unauthorized nature of the operation, investigators were unable to verify the aircraft's weight and balance status or the maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller.
Findings
- The pilot lacked a valid pilot license and aeronautical certification.
- The pilot did not hold a valid Medical Certificate (CMA).
- The Trendak Aviation Tercel lacked a valid Certificate of Authorization for Experimental Flight (CAVE).
- The aircraft was not registered in the Brazilian Aeronautical Registry (RAB).
- The aircraft experienced a loss of control during the takeoff roll, leading to the runway excursion and subsequent rollover.