What happened
On 26 May 2006, an ELA Aviation ELA-07 gyroplane, registered ZU-DSM, was involved in a ground accident at Rhino Park Aerodrome. During the initial takeoff at approximately 0900Z, the pilot encountered gusting crosswind conditions. To assess the weather, the pilot returned to the aerodrome to perform a runway inspection and evaluate the wind strength.
While establishing the approach for runway 27, the pilot noted that no significant crosswind component was present that required rudder compensation. The aircraft landed safely on the runway; however, after rolling approximately 25 to 30 meters along the surface, a sudden gust of wind struck the aircraft from the right side. This force caused the gyroplane to roll over onto its left side. The pilot promptly deactivated all electrical systems and exited the aircraft without injury. Onlookers subsequently assisted in uprighting the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the landing and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid gyroplane pilot license and a restricted medical certificate. The aircraft's maintenance records showed the last annual inspection had been completed on 12 April 2005, at which time the airframe had recorded 41.3 hours.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, propeller, tail section, and rotor blades.
- There were no injuries to the pilot.
- The primary cause of the rollover was a sudette gust of wind from the right side during the aircraft's ground roll.