Amateur-built Calidus N455BW accident near Thompsonville, Michigan

Probable cause

The pilot 's inability to maintain control of the gyrocraft during the landing roll for undetermined reasons.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that the takeoff seemed normal but that on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern the gyrocraft tended to roll to the right and he had difficulty keeping it level. He completed the traffic pattern and successfully touched down on the runway. However, after landing, he was unable to maintain control. The gyrocraft departed the runway pavement and rolled onto its right side. A postaccident examination confirmed flight control continuity throughout the system. No preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures were found that would have precluded normal operation. Documentation indicated that the gyrocraft was loaded within approved weight and balance limitations at the time of the accident. The pilot reported that this was his first flight in the gyrocraft and it was intended to be the first full flight of the required flight test operations phase. He noted that a mechanic had conducted 3 momentary flights over the runway after the gyrocraft had been completed.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA013 for the full record.