Celier Aviation XENON R N719MB accident near Loma, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a static wire and his decision to maneuver the gyroplane at low altitude.

NTSB analysis

The commercial pilot was conducting a personal flight in the gyroplane with one passenger on board. The gyroplane impacted a static wire that was strung between two poles on opposite sides of a river and was estimated to be about 50 ft above the water's surface. Damage to the gyroplane, including the separation of the main rotor assembly and impact signatures on the mast mount, was consistent with a wire strike. Postaccident examination did not reveal any preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions. Based on the available information, it is likely that the pilot chose to make a low-altitude flight along the river and failed to see and avoid the static wire.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15LA004 for the full record.