Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control of the gyroplane during takeoff roll, following his inadvertent release of the cyclic control.
NTSB analysis
During the takeoff roll, the pilot stated that the cyclic control slipped out of his hand, followed by an abrupt pitch up of the gyroplane. After becoming airborne for a brief time, the gyroplane descended tail first onto the runway and then cartwheeled several times, coming to rest on its right side. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13CA564 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 26, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Watkins, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Front Range (FTG)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
DOMINATOR
- N-number
- N728PJ
- Category
- Gyroplane
- Year built
- 2007
- 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.