What happened
On 5 March 2014, a Rotorsport Cavalon gyroplane, registration G-RDNY, was involved in an accident during a private training flight at Lydd Airport, Kent. The student pilot was conducting a cross-country exercise that had begun at North Weald Airfield. After completing several circuits with an instructor and a brief stop at Holmbeck Farm Airfield, the pilot prepared for the return leg to North Weald.
During the takeoff roll on Runway 21, the pilot performed the initial engine and rotor pre-rotation procedures. As the aircraft accelerated and reached an airspeed of 50 kt, the pilot attempted to initiate rotation by moving the control stick rearward. This maneuver caused the aircraft to pitch up aggressively. The impact of the keel and tail against the runway caused these components to detach. The aircraft briefly remained airborne before rolling onto its right side, with the rotor blades and fuselage striking the ground. The pilot, who sustained no injuries, was able to exit the aircraft independently.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the takeoff technique employed by the student pilot. The pilot admitted to a handling error, specifically noting that the control stick had not been moved aft prior to the start of the takeoff run. The pilot suggested this was a momentary lapse where they reverted to a takeoff technique used in fixed-wing aircraft. An instructor also noted that the correct procedure required the control stick to be eased aft once rotor rpm was achieved during pre-rotation, but before applying full takeoff power.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the use of an incorrect takeoff technique.
- The pilot failed to move the control stick aft before commencing the takeoff roll.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the airframe, including rotor strike marks on the runway and the detachment of the tail and keel.