What happened
On May 29, 2009, an AutoGyro MT 03 gyrocopter was conducting training flights at the Pirmasens airfield following its recent transfer from Speyer. During the pilot's second solo flight of the day, the aircraft began its takeoff roll from runway 05 at 16:53 local time.
Witnesses observed that the pilot initiated the takeoff roll with the control stick pushed forward. As the aircraft accelerated, it experienced an unusually rapid acceleration. Upon liftoff, the gyrocopter immediately assumed a steep angle of attack and rolled to the left. The aircraft struck the ground approximately 50 meters north of the runway, overturned, and became lodged upside down in a line of bushes. The pilot sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The BFU investigation focused on the takeoff procedure and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigation established that the aircraft, which had a total time in service of approximately 300 hours, showed no relevant technical defects. The engine, a Rotax 912 ULS, was functional, and fuel was present in the tanks.
Investigators examined the flight manual in effect at the time of the accident. They noted that the manual's instructions for the takeoff sequence were a critical factor in the sequence of events. The investigation also reviewed the manufacturer's subsequent revisions to the manual, which were implemented following the accident.