What happened
On 15 May 2007, a Gyrocopter ELA-08 was engaged in private flight operations at Springs Aerodrome. The pilot was performing routine practice maneuvers, specifically focusing on circuits and landings. After successfully completing two circuits, the pilot initiated the takeoff for a third circuit.
During the liftoff phase, the aircraft began drifting toward the right side of the runway. The pilot attempted to apply corrective inputs to steer the aircraft back to the left; however, these maneuvers failed to stabilize the flight path. Consequently, the aircraft lost control and crashed approximately 100 meters from the threshold of Runway 21. There were no injuries reported following the impact.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the flight and the condition of the aircraft, registration ZU-EHW. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid license and was medically fit for the flight, meeting all necessary regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the pilot possessed 72 total flying hours, all of which were accumulated on this specific type.
Regarding the mechanical state of the aircraft, maintenance records showed that the gyrocopter had been maintained according to approved procedures and regulations. The most recent annual inspection had been completed on 18 September 2006. At the time of the accident, the airframe had accumulated 76,7 total hours. The impact resulted in structural damage to the fuselage, the main rotor blades, and the right-hand tail section of the aircraft.