Probable cause
The improper landing flare, which resulted in the gyroplane's main rotor contacting the runway surface.
NTSB analysis
According to the certified flight instructor, during the training flight he retarded engine power while the airplane was on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, in order to simulate an engine failure. During the flare for the simulated forced landing, the main rotor blade of the gyroplane struck the ground, and it rolled over on its left side. The pilot reported there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the gyroplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA454 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 6, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Decker, Indiana
- Nearest airport
- Snider Field Airport (0IN1)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RAF 2000 GTX SE
- N-number
- N25VK
- Category
- Gyroplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.