What happened
On 27 August 2010, a student pilot was conducting solo touch-and-go training maneuvers at Brakpan Aerodrome in Gauteng Province. While on short final approach for runway 36, the Autogyro GM began yawing to the left. In an attempt to rectify the situation, the pilot initiated a go-around by applying power; however, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient airspeed.
As the pilot attempted to correct the leftward yaw with right rudder, the aircraft made contact with the runway on its right main landing gear first. Upon the nose gear hitting the surface, the gyrocopter lost stability and rolled over onto its right side. The aircraft, registration ZU-REA, sustained significant damage to its airframe, propeller, and rotor blades. The pilot escaped the wreckage without any injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight sequence and the pilot's actions leading up to the impact. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was well-maintained, with the last annual inspection completed only 28 hours prior to the event. The aircraft was also found to be in a serviceable condition with no mechanical defects or malfunctions contributing to the incident.
Investigators also reviewed the meteorological conditions, noting a surface wind of 340 degrees at 5 to 7 knots. The analysis focused on the pilot's handling of the aircraft during the flare and the timing of the decision to abort the landing.
Findings
- The student pilot lost directional control of the aircraft during the flare phase of landing.
- A late decision to perform a go-around resulted in a state where the power required for flight exceeded the power available.
- The pilot's attempt to counteract the crosswind led to overcorrection, contributing to the loss of control.
- The pilot's limited flying experience, with only 14.8 total hours, was a contributing factor to the poor landing technique.