The pilot reported that this was his first flight in the gyroplane.
During takeoff from Runway 15 at the airport in Lincoln, California, which was 6,001′ by 100′, he centered the gyroplane on the runway and increased engine rpm and rotor speed.
Around 120 rotor rpm during the takeoff roll, he pulled back on the cyclic.
Due to injuries sustained in the accident, he does not recall what occurred afterward.
The gyroplane came to rest on its right side on the right side of the runway, sustaining substantial damage to the empennage.
The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation station on the airport reported that, about five minutes before the accident, the wind was from 260° at 7 knots. The same automated station reported that, about 15 minutes after the accident, the wind was from 330° at 5 knots.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB Identification: GAA18CA213
This April 2018 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Forgot to add that as far as I know gyrocopters have a fixed rotor and no cyclic. Am I correct?
A gyrocopter has a cyclic for directional control. No collective as it is not a helicopter!
Oh, I had my terms mixed up! Thanks for the explanation. Bob
A few years ago I took a ride in a two place European built gyrocopter. The pilot told me that the pre-spin system got the rotor up to 200 rpm, and the take off roll achieved the other 100 rpm needed for a total of 300 rotor rpm needed to get airborne. Sounds as if perhaps he tried to pull the aircraft off the ground too soon?